State Guide: Ash Scattering in Wisconsin

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

• State Flower: Wood Violet 🌸
• State Tree: Sugar Maple 🌳
  
• State Bird: American Robin 🐦
• State River: Wisconsin River 🌊
• State Stone: Red Granite ⛏️
  
• State Song: "On, Wisconsin!" 🎶
  
• State Motto: "Forward" 🌟

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

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

In 2020, the cremation rate in Wisconsin was approximately 60%, 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.

Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, 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:

Forest Hill Cemetery

• Location: Madison, WI
• Description: A historic cemetery offering a cremation scattering garden and other memorial services.
• Website: Forest Hill Cemetery

Graceland Cemetery

• Location: Milwaukee, WI
• Description: Founded in 1914 as a non-profit, church-owned cemetery, endowed for perpetual care, Graceland Cemetery is a peaceful cemetery providing scattering garden options and cremation services. With our religious heritage and emphasis on family values, we continually strive to maintain the cemetery as a place of respect, dignity, and peace.
• Website: Graceland Cemetery

Riverside Cemetery

• Location: Appleton, WI
• Description: In 1910 the stone entrance to Riverside was erected. This impressive “door” to the cemetery includes a chapel, office space and winter storage for bodies, used at a time when winter burials were not possible. It has been a long-standing tradition that on Memorial Day, parade bands and spectators march down Pacific Street through the Riverside archway to the GAR (Grand Army of the Republic) plot to participate in a ceremony honoring soldiers who have passed away. In 1988 a freestanding garden mausoleum was built to the north of the main entrance offering above ground crypts for traditional burials and niches for cremains. Today, Riverside encompasses about ninety private acres of land, dotted by the plethora of tree varieties, spreading their branches over buried loved ones and the grieving. A walk through the grounds reveals stately family mausoleums and monuments as uniquely different as the individuals buried at their feet.
• Website: Riverside Cemetery

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.