Scattering ashes on Snowdon ‘harms soil’

FOR many the summit of Snowdon, the peak that has exerted a mystical fascination over generations of Britons, may seem like the perfect final resting place.

Yet families scattering the ashes of their dearly departed on the slopes of the Welsh mountain have drawn criticism from conservationists, who say it damages the area’s ecosystem by altering the acidity of the soil.

Officials at the Snowdonia National Park Authority have urged the public to find an alternative.

A spokesman said: “While we empathise with families and relatives suffering the loss of a loved one, [we] do not encourage the scattering of ashes on Snowdon. The dispersal of ashes is problematic as it can be upsetting for others in the vicinity and we have received many complaints from the public.

“In terms of ecology, the soils are low acidic types and the spreading of what is calcareous materials will lead to changes to the existing soils and subsequently the natural ecosystems.”

Notices displayed in the visitor centre highlight how the remains can impact the soil’s natural PH balance.

However, the authority cannot legally ban people from scattering ashes.

A spokesman for the Snowdonia Society added: “It’s really become an issue. I would probably advise that people scatter the ashes in the wind rather than dumping them in a pile.”