2006 DUTCH ELM DISEASE SURVEY RESULTS

The 2006 Dutch elm disease (DED) survey results were mixed this year, with some areas showing significant decreases in the number of infected trees over last year, while others had more diseased trees.

Several communities with a history of DED had no diseased trees this year. Kamsack, Carlyle, Tisdale, Grenfell, Indian Head, White City, Balcarres, Caronport, Davidson, Weyburn and Melville were all DED-free this year. Significant decreases were also seen in Lumsden (12 infections this year, 32 last year) and Regina Beach (14/28). The communities of North Battleford, Saskatoon, Yorkton, Swift Current and Prince Albert remained DED-free.

This year's survey found more infected trees in several communities, including Estevan (25/20), Carnduff (13/5), Wolseley (3/1), Fort Qu'Appelle (16/14) and Katepwa (59/49).

"The numbers were variable again this year," Provincial Dutch elm disease administrator Steve Hyde said. "However, we can still see the positive results of an active disease management program in many communities."

Buffer zones have been established outside urban centres with significant elm populations in order to limit the movement of the disease. This year, infected trees were identified in the Regina, Moose Jaw, Estevan, Fort Qu'Appelle, Indian Head and Tisdale buffer zones. Many of the infected trees were removed this summer, with the remainder to be removed this fall and winter.

"An effective DED management program requires planning and co-operation," Hyde said. "This year, there are 40 communities participating in agreements with Saskatchewan Environment to share the cost of their programs, which may include spraying, pruning, staff training and public education."

Healthy elms resist infection better and homeowners should prune their trees regularly but observe the pruning ban from April 1st to August 31st each year. Because of the risk of spreading the disease, transporting or storing elm firewood is illegal.

For more information on proper DED management, call Saskatchewan Environment's toll-free DED information line at 1-800-SASK ELM (1-800-727-5356).

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For More Information, Contact:

Steve Hyde Environment Saskatoon Phone: (306) 933-6515 Email: shyde@serm.gov.sk.ca Cell: (306) 230-5541