Tree Dedicated in Honor of Susan Cooper

November 13, 2023—Olean—The City of Olean employees honored long time City Forester Susan Cooper by dedicating a tree in her honor on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. in Lincoln Park.

Mrs. Cooper was named City Forester in 1992 and stayed on in that capacity until her death on March 16, 2023. She used her position to bring an understanding to community members about the importance of maintaining Olean’s urban forest. Her indepth knowledge helped the City of Olean to secure two grants. The NYS Urban Forestry Council Tree City USA Reward Grant program allowed the City to plant twelve trees along the eastern side of Forness Pond. A grant awarded by the Department of Environmental Conservation Urban and Community Forestry Program allowed the City to complete a tree inventory and management plan.

“Susan Cooper was an excellent forester. She selected new trees to be planted throughout the City for thirty years. Because of her long tenure, the seasons confirm her love of the environment and for our community. Her work is evident in the spring when the trees bloom and again in the fall when the leaves change color,” Mayor Aiello said. “She helped to make Olean a beautiful and colorful place to live. She will be missed.”

The Freeman Maple tree that was planted was donated by Schichtel’s Nursery. Donations from City employees purchased the memorial stone.

Photo ID:  Left to right Ashley Cooper, Andy Cooper, Wayne Cooper and Mayor Aiello.