The annual ban on pruning elm trees in the province has come to an end and residents are encouraged to prune their elm trees.
Each year, provincial regulations prohibit pruning elm trees from April 1 to Aug. 31 to reduce the risk of spreading Dutch Elm Disease (DED).
The elm bark beetles that spread the disease are most active during this period, and fresh cuts from pruning can attract insects to healthy elm trees.
The province says regular pruning is a great practice to keep trees healthy and less vulnerable to all types of diseases. Outside the ban period, removing the dead branches on elm trees makes trees less attractive to elm bark beetles and reduces the risk of DED.
Early fall generally offers an ideal setting for tree maintenance; with leaves still on the trees, homeowners have an easier time seeing and removing dead or unhealthy branches.
In Saskatchewan, it is illegal to transport or store elm firewood. The wood can carry the elm bark beetles, and transported wood is one of the main ways the disease spreads. Dispose of elm wood promptly by burning or burying it in a location approved by your local municipality.
To find out more about proper elm disposal in your area, check with your local town office.
For more information, or if you suspect an elm tree may have DED, call the Ministry of Environment's general inquiry line at 1-800-567-4224.