Saskatchewan residents can resume pruning elm trees as of Sept. 1 as the annual provincial ban ended Aug. 31.
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The provincial pruning ban runs from April 1 to Aug. 31 each year to help curb the spread of Dutch elm disease, the Ministry of Environment announced.
The fungus that causes Dutch elm disease is spread by elm bark beetles, which are most active during the ban period. Fresh cuts can attract the beetles and spread the disease to healthy trees.
Pruning and disposal requirements
Whether homeowners hire someone to trim their trees or do it themselves, pruning correctly is important to avoid damaging trees or spreading diseases, officials say.
Anyone who prunes elm trees commercially in Saskatchewan must have completed a provincially recognized training program or be supervised by someone who has.
Residents must dispose of any elm wood promptly at the location designated by their local municipal authority.
It is illegal to store, use or transport elm firewood, except for disposal, as the wood can carry the beetles that spread Dutch elm disease.
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