Surrey Public Wharf offers residents a place to fish, launch their boats, and enjoy views of the water and mountains. Soon the scenic spot on the Fraser River will also become a place where families can scatter the cremated remains of their loved ones. The City of Surrey said it is launching the pilot project in response to a specific need from the community. “For many families, the spreading of a loved one’s ashes in flowing water is an important cultural, religious and personally significant practice,” said Mayor Brenda Locke, in a news release Thursday. “This project provides a safe and respectful place where families can come together to remember loved ones and honour traditions deeply meaningful to them.” The city says the location at the north end of 130 Street was chosen after technical reviews, community engagement and environmental assessment. It added that engagement with the indigenous community is ongoing. It will cost $237 to scatter ashes at the site, and families will be required to book a date and time in advance. An online booking form will be available on the City of Surrey’s website starting on Sept. 21. Visitors are asked to scatter cremated remains only, and not leave flowers, balloons or any other memorial objects behind. Earlier this year the City of Delta also announced plans for an ash scattering site at Fraser Viewpoint on Tilbury Island.
