WITH one in every four trees in Saskatoon being an elm, City of Saskatoon is reminding residents of the provincial ban on pruning elm trees from Tuesday, April 1 to Sunday, August 31, 2025, to help prevent the spread of Dutch Elm Disease (DED).
Understanding Dutch Elm Disease
As defined in City of Saskatoon’s press release, ‘DED is a devastating fungal infection that clogs an elm tree’s water and nutrient system, ultimately causing the tree to die’.
The disease has already wiped out millions of elm trees across Canada and the United States. In Saskatchewan, it is primarily spread by elm bark beetles, which can travel more than two kilometers in search of elm trees. The fungus attaches to the beetles’ bodies, allowing them to spread the infection between trees. It can also be transmitted through infected pruning tools.
Regulations to Prevent the Spread
Provincial regulations strictly prohibit the storing, transporting, and use of elm wood, including wood chips, firewood, wood slabs, and branches. The only legal disposal method for elm wood is through the City’s designated disposal site at the Saskatoon Landfill.
Recognizing the Signs of DED
Symptoms of DED may start appearing as early as June. Affected trees will show signs of wilting leaves that turn yellow, then curl and eventually turn brown. Residents who suspect an unhealthy elm tree or are unsure about their firewood are encouraged to take a photo and complete the online form at saskatoon.ca/dutchelmdisease or call 306-975-2476.
How Saskatoon Residents Can Help Prevent The Spread of DED
To prevent the spread of DED, residents are advised to:
- Avoid pruning elm trees during the provincial pruning ban (April 1 to August 31)
- Refrain from bringing elm wood into the city, storing it for more than a day, or using it as firewood
- Only dispose of elm wood at the City Landfill
- Sanitize pruning tools after working on elm trees
- Avoid building treehouses in elm trees, as nail and screw holes attract elm bark beetles
- Report dead or dying elm trees or branches to the City or a professional arborist
For Saskatoon residents needing to prune elm trees during the ban, a permit is required. To obtain one, residents can contact the City’s Parks Department at 306-975-2890.
By following these guidelines and maintaining healthy elm trees on private properties, residents can play a crucial role in preventing the spread of DED in Saskatoon.
For more information, visit saskatoon.ca/dutchelmdisease.
