All About Ash Scattering

Cremation services in Silvis, IL are very common, but what happens to all the cremated ashes after the services are over? 

While there are quite a few options for post-cremation, a lot of people choose to scatter their loved one’s ashes. If you want to scatter your loved one’s ashes after cremation, it’s important that you know and understand the facts and rules surrounding the process, such as the following. 

First, thing about if you want to scatter all the ashes. You can scatter as much or as little of the ashes as you want. Sometimes different members of the family each take a turn scattering, or some of the ashes can be kept to be scattered at a later date, in a different location, or not at all. Also, most cremations reduce the body down to fine ash mixed with coarse, sand-like ash containing bone fragments. Be aware of this fact when considering scattering. 

It’s important to note that there is more than one way of scattering ashes. Scattering can mean more than just tossing ashes into the wind. There are in fact two main ways of scattering ashes: casting and trenching. Casting is scattering the ashes into the air, and trenching is burying the ashes just below the ground surface. You can also rake ashes into soil, cast ashes from an airplane, or even send ashes into space. 

Don’t forget to check local scattering regulations. Rules and regulations about where you can scatter ashes varies from state to state, and even city to city. Be sure to read up on your local laws to avoid getting fined for scattering in a prohibited place. The same goes for more unique scattering locations, such as at sea or in national parks. Sometimes you even need a permit. 

You can also take photographs or videos of the scattering to help preserve memories, and to have something more concrete to honor the deceased. Sometimes people regret scattering as it takes away any concrete memorial, so the photographs or video footage can be a good stand in for the ashes themselves. 

Also, it seems obvious, but it’s important to make a clear plan for who will scatter the ashes, and this might not be as straightforward as it may seem. Sometimes families wish for a religious leader to do the scattering, or other times families hire a company to help. Lastly, be aware the wind direction. Be sure to take note of the wind direction on the day you want to scatter. You do not want to have ashes blown back into your face. It’s not unhealthy or dangerous, just very uncomfortable. 

There are many different ways you can make your loved one’s scattering special and unique. 

Want to learn more about scattering or about Silvis, IL cremation services? Trimble Funeral Home & Crematory is here to help. You can stop by and visit us or give us a call at for more information on what we can do for you in your time of grief.