Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests
Crooked River National Grassland

Frequently Asked Questions

Memorials

1. I want to scatter burial ashes of a loved one. Can I do this in a national forest?   There are no rules or regulations within the Forest Service addressing this issue. However, some states regulate or prohibit the scattering of ashes. It is important to check local and state regulations and laws pertaining to this activity.
2. I want to make a memorial to a loved one. Can I do this in a national forest?   Memorials are not permitted on National Forest Systems lands. Memorials are considered "permanent use of public lands" and therefore would require a special use authorization. No legal authority has been granted to the National Forest System to provide for permanent use of National Forest System lands by a special use authorization.
3. Can I plant a memorial tree on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests?   No, you can't just plant a tree on the forest lands but you can contact Plant-a-Tree in the regional office. The tree will be planted somewhere on the forest of your choice. You will not know the exact location of the tree. But, you will get a acknowledgment of the receipt of the money for the tree.
   Contact: 333 SW First ST. Portland, OR 97208-3623, 503-808-2644. The National Arbor Day Foundation plants trees in memory.