ATLANTIC ASH SCATTERING

The only legal option for ocean ash scattering in the waters around the Chesapeake area.

It's All about the Relationship

ASH SCATTERING BY ATLANTIC SCATTERING

For families who have chosen cremation services in Annapolis, MD for a loved one, the next decision involves what to do with the remains. Some choose to keep the cremated remains in their home, have them placed in a columbarium niche at a local cemetery, or scatter the ashes in a meaningful place.  Atlantic Scattering offers assistance to families seeking water scattering as the final resting place for a loved one’s cremated remains. Atlantic Scattering is based in Maryland and scatters cremated remains in accordance with the state and federal laws.

WHAT IS ATLANTIC ASH SCATTERING

WHAT IS ATLANTIC ASH SCATTERING

Atlantic Ash Scattering is a process where cremated remains are taken into the Atlantic Ocean, beyond 12 nautical miles from shore, for private placement. Utilizing biodegradable, eco-friendly receptacles for water scattering, the ash scattering process ensures all cremated remains are respectfully placed into the Atlantic Ocean. The scattering process is performed between the months June - October with notification provided at least 2 days prior to scattering date.  

Family members are not able to be in attendance.  Photographs are taken during the placement of the biodegradable receptacle into the water, documentation recorded of the precise GPS longitude and latitude, and a certificate is issued to the family noting visual details of the Ash Scattering process.

2023 COST: $750 (includes biodegradable scattering urn)

Frequently Asked Questions on scattering of ashes

  • Can't I just scatter my loved one in the water where I want to?In a word - No. Nearly every regulatory agency in our state has made it almost impossible to legally scatter human cremated remains in the waters surrounding our area. Any scattering in the Chesapeake Bay itself is completely prohibited.
  • My loved one fished the waters just off the coast which would be a perfect eternal resting place for them, can I specify where my loved one is scattered?Laws require scattering to take place a minimum of 3 nautical miles from the coast, however there are still further regulations that place restrictions on the waters between 3 and 12 nautical miles from the shore. This is why our services always scatter no less than 12 nautical miles from the shore.
  • Can my loved one's cremated remains be stored in a reef in the Chesapeake Bay?Prior to 2012, this was allowed, however new regulations went into effect in April 2012 which disallowed cremated remains to be placed in reefs in our area.

how to scatter cremation ashes

how to scatter cremation ashes

Cremated remains bear little resemblance to ashes; they look and behave a lot like small-grained gravel. However, there are some fine-grains mixed in so be sure to check the wind direction before scattering into the air or a body of water.

The technique of trenching is another option. Dig a small trench in the location of your choice, place the remains (or a biodegradable urn for ashes) within, and cover with soil.

Raking is another technique used. Pour the remains on the surface of the soil and use a rake to mix the ashes.

You may also wish to check out our selection of scattering urns prior to making plans for your ceremony. Should you need advice on how to design a meaningful ceremony, feel free to Contact Us.

Looking for more information?

Please submit the form below, or give us a call. We would welcome the opportunity to answer your questions and help you understand if Atlantic Scattering is the right choice for you and your family.

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