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To reduce the risk of Dutch elm disease (DED), pruning of elm trees will once again be prohibited throughout Saskatchewan from April 1 to August 31.

Elm bark beetles that spread the disease are most active during this time of year.  Fresh cuts from pruning can attract the insects and increase the chance of a DED infection.

Proper elm tree pruning outside the annual ban period helps keep trees healthy and better able to resist all diseases, including DED.  Removing dead and dying elm wood through pruning also helps reduce places for beetles to breed, and curbs their populations.  Throughout the year, including during the ban period, DED-infected elms should be removed promptly.

Provincial regulations require commercial pruners of elm trees to complete a recognized training program or be under the supervision of someone who has.  Improper pruning techniques can spread many tree diseases, including DED.

Because of the risk of spreading DED, transporting or storing elm firewood is illegal.  Elm wood must be disposed of promptly, using the method and locations chosen by each municipality.

For more information, call your local municipal office or the ministry’s Client Service Office at 1-800-567-4224.