Pruning Ban for Elm Trees Takes Effect Monday, April 1

This PSA has been updated to reflect correct dates.

One in every four trees in Saskatoon is an elm tree and threatened by Dutch elm disease (DED). The City reminds residents that the provincial ban on pruning elm trees is from Monday, April 1 to Saturday, August 31, 2024. 

Provincial regulations also prohibit the storing, transport and use of elm wood for any purpose. This includes wood chips, firewood, wood slabs and branches. The only permitted movement of elm wood is to the City’s designated disposal site at the City Landfill.  

What is DED? 

DED is a serious disease caused by a fungus that clogs the elm tree’s water and nutrient conducting system, which eventually causes the tree to die. DED was introduced in North America in the 1930s and has since wiped out millions of elms across Canada and the United States.   

How is DED spread? 

In Saskatchewan, the disease is spread by several species of elm bark beetles. These beetles can fly farther than two kilometres in search of elm trees. The DED fungus has tiny spores that stick to the body of the beetle. Elm bark beetles can carry these spores and infect other elm trees. The fungus can also be spread by infected pruning tools. 

You can help prevent DED by: 

• Not pruning elms during the provincial pruning ban (April 1 to August 31) 
• Not bringing elm wood into the city, storing elm wood for more than a day, or burning elm firewood  
• Always disposing of elm wood at the City Landfill 
• Sanitizing tools after working on elm trees 
• Not building treehouses in elm trees, as the nail and screw holes can attract elm bark beetles  
• Reporting dead or dying elm trees or branches to the City

How to identify and report unhealthy elm trees and firewood 

American elm trees with DED may start showing symptoms as early as June. Typically, the leaves will start to wilt and turn yellow, then curl and turn brown. If you suspect an unhealthy elm tree or are unsure of what type of firewood you have, take a photo and complete the online form at saskatoon.ca/dutchelmdisease or call Urban Forestry at 306-975-2890. 

Anyone wishing to prune elm trees during the ban must obtain a permit and are asked to call the City’s Parks Department at 306-975-2890 for more information. By following the provincial regulations and maintaining elm trees on your private property, all residents can help prevent the spread of DED in Saskatoon.  

For more information on DED, visit saskatoon.ca/dutchelmdisease