CambridgeToday received the following Letter to the Editor from reader John Cann, who expresses concerns with spreading cremation ashes in Grand River:
There is currently an issue in discussion in Cambridge regarding the spreading of cremation ashes in the Grand River.
I am greatly concerned regarding the environmental and recreational impact of this behaviour to the Grand River. While it has been said it will be small quantities this is a cultural practice in some areas of the world and estimates of the ash amounts are impossible to anticipate in the future.
I have had mixed answers to whether human ashes float or sink. Either is an issue. If they float there is the vision of fishermen, canoers, tubers, and swimmers being engulfed in a cloud of human ashes. If they sink then they accumulate in one spot, typically easily accessible and a place where others will be utilizing the river.
I have heard that this issue is being kicked back and forth by various levels of government, none wishing to make a possibly political decision.
If I am not mistaken this is a contravention of the environmental protection act and possible other legislation at various levels.
John Cann
Cambridge
