State Guide: Ash Scattering in West Virginia

If you are thinking of scattering ashes in the state of West Virginia, it may be helpful to know the official symbols:

• State Flower: Rhododendron 🌸
• State Tree: Sugar Maple 🌳
• State Bird: Northern Cardinal 🐦
• State River: Kanawha River 🌊
• State Stone: Coal ⛏️
• State Song: "Take Me Home, Country Roads" 🎶
• State Motto: "Montani Semper Liberi" ("Mountaineers Are Always Free") ⛰️

How prevalent is the practice of scattering cremated ashes or cremains in West Virginia?

The practice of scattering ashes has become increasingly popular in West Virginia, reflecting a broader national trend toward cremation and personalized memorials. While specific statistics on ash scattering in West Virginia are limited, cremation has seen a significant rise.

In 2020, the cremation rate in West Virginia was approximately 45%, with projections showing continued growth. With this increase, more families are seeking meaningful and personalized ways to honor their loved ones, including scattering ashes in designated gardens, cemeteries, or natural locations.

West Virginia law permits the scattering of ashes on private property (with the owner’s consent), in public parks with proper authorization, and in bodies of water following federal regulations. Several cemeteries and organizations have developed designated scattering gardens to accommodate this growing preference.

It is important to review local laws and regulations before scattering ashes in any location to ensure compliance and respect for the environment.

Examples of Ash Scattering Gardens in West Virginia

In West Virginia, several cemeteries and organizations offer scattering gardens—designated areas where families can respectfully scatter the cremated remains of their loved ones. Here are some notable options:

Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery

• Location: Dunbar, WV
• Description: A veteran's cemetery providing a dedicated area for cremation scattering. Burial or interment services are available to an eligible veteran at no cost. This includes a grave site or niche, opening and closing services, a pre-set crypt, a headstone or niche cover, and perpetual care. A Presidential Memorial Certificate will also be provided to the veteran’s surviving next of kin. For the spouse or another eligible family member, a fee of $780 will be charged. The order of death does not determine eligibility for benefits. A spouse or eligible child may pre-decease the veteran. The veteran’s service makes them eligible, not the veteran's death.  A veteran’s non-veteran surviving spouse can be buried in the cemetery based on their marriage to the eligible veteran, even if they remarry following the death of the veteran.
• Website: WV Veterans Cemetery

Sunset Memorial Park

• Location: South Charleston, WV
• Description: Sunset Memorial Park, Funeral Home and Crematory is family owned and operated, providing individualized funeral services designed to meet the needs of each family. We will guide you through all aspects of your loves one's funeral or memorial service. Contact us today if you need funeral services.
• Website: Sunset Memorial Park

Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens

• Location: Beckley, WV
• Description: A scenic cemetery with a dedicated scattering garden and memorialization options.
• Website: Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens

Woodlawn Memorial Park

• Location: Bluefield, WV
• Description: Located near the sparkling waters of Camp Creek, our elegant stone monuments and well-kept acreage has been a refuge for Paducah families since the 1940s. We are honored to serve McCracken County with traditional funerals, cremations, mausoleum spaces, and advanced arrangements.
• Website: Woodlawn Memorial Park

Farmstead Scattering Garden

• Location: Mail-in service, Pennsylvania
  
• Description: Farmstead Scattering Garden offers a unique option for those who prefer a remote and tranquil resting place. Families can mail in cremated remains, and upon arrival, the ashes will be respectfully scattered on a working farm. This service allows families to customize their scattering experience, choosing a specific location and ceremony details without the need to travel.
• Website: Farmstead Scattering Garden
• Contact: Call or text (814) 450-5432 for more information.

Are there mail-in options for ash scattering services?

Yes! If you are looking for a way to celebrate your loved one, consider a customizable mail-in ash scattering ceremony with Farmstead Scattering Garden. We’ve simplified the process by offering a mail-in service. With Farmstead Scattering, you can mail cremated remains, and upon arrival, we’ll honor your loved one by scattering their ashes on our working farm. With our services, you can choose a specific location and customize the scattering ceremony.

Visit our service page or call or text us at (814) 450-5432 to learn more.