(Cochrane, AB) – At the May 26 council meeting, Administration provided a report summarizing community input and recommendations for commemorating the Grandfather Tree—a beloved natural landmark lost in a January windstorm. Following the presentation, Council directed Administration to proceed with the installation of a custom-built bench incorporating wood from the Grandfather Tree at the original tree site, accompanied by interpretive signage and a permanent reflection mailbox.
This commemorative feature will be funded through the Parks & Active Living operational budget, ensuring timely delivery without additional taxpayer cost. Designed to reflect community sentiment, the installation will incorporate remaining wood from the Grandfather Tree and offer a dedicated space for reflection, learning and remembrance. With a focus on supporting local businesses, Administration will prioritize sourcing contractors from within the community, continuing our current practice of utilizing local service providers.
"The Grandfather Tree meant so much to all of us, and that was clear in the incredible outpouring of ideas from our community," said Mayor Jeff Genung. "We’re deeply grateful to everyone in Cochrane who took the time to share their thoughts. This tribute reflects not only the tree’s legacy, but also what it represented - our connection to nature, our history and the spirit of Cochrane itself. We hope its story will continue to live on for generations."
Earlier this year, Administration collaborated with local artists to embed the tree’s legacy into Cochrane’s cultural fabric at no extra cost. These efforts included “Hereafter,” a public art piece at The Station featuring a preserved section of the Grandfather Tree cast in resin, and an artistic representation of the tree in the Cochrane “Bricolage” art piece, ensuring its continued presence in the town’s visual and symbolic identity.
These elements, along with the new commemorative installation at the tree’s original site, reflect a holistic and community-inspired approach to remembrance.
Over 45 suggestions from residents were received via email and through a temporary mailbox installed earlier this year at the tree’s site. While Council has chosen to proceed with the bench installation, two additional options were explored:
- A children’s book project: an illustrated story of the Grandfather Tree developed with a local author. This initiative, valued at $17,099, would require grant funding and a potential town contribution
- Commemorative keychains: wooden keychains made from the tree’s wood, with proceeds supporting environmental programming. This option would require a revenue framework and reinvestment plan
Community ideas also included on-site sculptures, crafted keepsakes and educational programs. All were considered with care, and Council’s decision balances feasibility, cost and long-term impact.
For more information, visit cochrane.ca/grandfathertree or contact community.services@cochrane.ca.