Alberta Parks supports scattering of cremated remains for personal, spiritual, and/or religious purposes. The process of scattering cremated remains in these locations should consider the impact to the public and the environment. Alberta Parks recommends the following guidance:
- Cremated remains should be completely pulverized prior to scattering. No ferrous or non-ferrous metal products, metal identification disk, teeth, bone fragments or remnants recognizable as human remains should be visible.
- Cremated remains should be fully dispersed such that no obvious remnants of scattering remain.
- Only biodegradable vessels may be used when scattering cremated remains. No other container, urn, or ancillary objects including but not limited to markers, plants, or decorations, may be deposited with the scattered remains. This requirement reduces the potential for unintended distribution of invasive objects or species into the environment.
- Cremated remains should be scattered to avoid developed areas or high public activity areas.
- Cremated remains should be scattered to avoid the depositing of high concentrations in one location.
- If a ceremony is to take place, it should not impede the enjoyment of others in a public setting.
- Care should be taken to ensure that cremated remains are not scattered near drinking water intakes or recreational water activities, such as swimming areas.
- In some locations and trails, group size limits may apply due to ecological sensitivities. Please note that for large groups wishing to hold ceremonies in a park or protected area, a special event permit may be required.
