City of Morden officials are optimistic what's believed to be one of the province's oldest cottonwood trees can make a full recovery after sustaining considerable damage earlier in August during a severe thunderstorm.

"The tree sustained some significant damage from the wind and storm event we had a few weeks ago. It probably reduced the crown by at least a third," said Parks Manager Shawn Dias.

The tree, which is located in the southeast corner of Confederation Park in Morden, is a big part of the community according to Mayor Ken Wiebe.

According to Dias the leaf/canvas area of a tree is very important, and really helps with the functionality of the tree itself.

"If you are ever reducing the leaf area you are basically reducing the tree's ability to transpire, produce oxygen and do its thing. If you reduce the leaf area, you reduce the health and vigour of that tree."

Dias added how much damage the tree can withstand is yet to be determined, as it all depends on the size of the tree and how big of a root system it has. It is his hope that some additional pruning will help the tree flourish, and be able to grow more of a leaf/canvas area next year.

"The overall tree itself will let us know where it's at next year when it's time to leaf out," explained Dias. "We can make some predictions, but we will have to wait and see, once spring rolls around next year to see how the tree recovers from the stress it has received."