The Town of Cochrane says the winds that swept through Alberta on Thursday night were strong enough to knock over a centuries-old landmark.
In a release on Friday, the town says its approximately 300-year old ‘Grandfather Tree’ fell over during the windstorm.
The tree is located in wooded area just off of a walking trail near the Cochrane RancheHouse.
“The Grandfather Tree held a special place in the hearts of our community,” says Lisa Almond, the town’s executive director of community safety and wellbeing. “Its loss is deeply felt, as it stood for generations as a gathering place and a symbol of pride and connection for so many in Cochrane.”
The town says measures were taken in recent tears to protect the tree. Fencing was installed in late 2024 to help with concerns about increased foot traffic, soil erosion and root damage.
Cochrane’s parks department is continuing work to help stabilize the area around the tree. The town says it will not be removed at this time.
“As we reflect on its significance, we are carefully exploring meaningful ways to repurpose the wood and nurture new life through seed propagation, ensuring its legacy continues to inspire future generations,” says Almond.
Residents are being asked to mind the fencing and signs around the site.
The winds that swept through most of the province Thursday caused whiteout conditions on Alberta highways. RCMP say they responded to nearly 150 collisions between noon Thursday and Friday morning.