Saskatchewan begins its annual elm pruning ban April 1 to stop the spread of Dutch Elm Disease (DED).
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The provincial prohibition runs until Aug. 31 to match the peak activity of elm bark beetles. These beetles carry the fungus that causes DED and swarm toward the fresh scent of pruning cuts. Once the fungus infects a tree, it always kills it.
Provincial officials say pruning outside of this window helps keep trees healthy and reduces beetle populations. However, those looking to hire professional help must ensure their arborist is qualified. In Saskatchewan, commercial elm pruners are required by law to have completed a recognized training program.
Proper Disposal Critical
Residents can still remove entire elm trees during the ban, but they must follow strict disposal rules. The Ministry of Environment requires immediate disposal of all elm wood and the removal or treatment of stumps to eliminate potential beetle breeding grounds.
“Transporting elm wood is one of the most common ways that DED can spread,” the province stated in a news release.
Because of this risk, it is illegal to use, transport, store, or sell elm firewood in Saskatchewan. Similar restrictions apply to the sale and movement of elm logs.
How to Help
To protect the province’s urban forests, residents should:
- Check the calendar: Stop all elm pruning between April 1 and Aug. 31.
- Know the rules: Only transport elm wood to designated municipal disposal sites.
- Hire professionals: Ensure any hired pruners have the proper provincial certification.
For more information on Dutch Elm Disease or to find a local disposal site, residents can contact their local municipality or the Ministry of Environment’s Inquiry Centre at 1-800-567-4224.
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