REGINA — Starting Sept, 1, Saskatchewan residents can safely prune elm trees again as the annual pruning ban comes to an end.
The provincial pruning ban is in place from April 1 to Aug. 31 each year to help curb the spread of Dutch elm disease (DED). The fungus that causes DED 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.
Whether you decide to hire someone to trim your trees or do it yourself, pruning correctly is important to avoid damaging your trees or spreading diseases, says Sask. Environment. The ministry advises that if you hire someone, make sure they are qualified. In Saskatchewan, anyone who prunes elm trees commercially must have completed a provincially recognized training program or be supervised by someone who has.
It is also critical to dispose of any elm wood promptly at the location designated by your local municipal authority. It is illegal to store, use or transport (except for disposal) elm firewood, as the wood can carry the beetles that spread DED.
For more information, or if you suspect an elm tree may have DED, contact the Ministry of Environment's Inquiry Centre at 1-800-567-4224 or centre.inquiry@gov.sk.ca.
