The provincial ban on the pruning of elm trees ends this weekend.
The ban goes into effect on April 1st of each year and ends on August 31st. Its purpose is to help reduce the risk of Dutch elm disease, which is spread by the elm bark beetle.
The beetle is attracted to the fresh scent of cuts in elm trees and is most active from April to August. This is why the pruning ban is in place for that period.
In a release announcing the end of the ban, the provincial government noted that late summer and early fall are the best times for pruning elm trees, as unhealthy branches are easier to spot and remove with leaves still on the tree. They advise that incorrect pruning practices can injure or stress trees, and provincial regulations stipulate professional elm tree pruners must complete a recognized training program, or be supervised by someone who has completed the program.
It is illegal to store, use, or transport elm firewood in Saskatchewan. Those who want to dispose of elm prunings in Weyburn can take them to the landfill. You can find more details about Dutch elm disease on the City of Weyburn website.