PRUNING RESTRICTIONS FOR ELM TREES END

The annual restriction on pruning all types of elm trees ends September 1st.

Each year, pruning of elm trees is prohibited from April 1st to August 31st to
reduce the risk of Dutch elm disease. The beetles that spread the deadly disease are active during this period, and fresh cuts attract them.

"When the ban period ends, we encourage homeowners to prune their elm trees," provincial Dutch elm disease coordinator Steve Hyde said. "In doing so, they can help protect their trees as well as all the elms in their community."

Regular pruning, outside the ban period, helps keep trees healthy and better able to resist all types of diseases, including Dutch elm disease. Removing dead wood also makes trees less attractive to elm bark beetles, the insect that spreads the fungus that causes the disease.

The late summer and early fall can be an opportune time for tree maintenance. The weather is generally more pleasant and predictable than in the early spring, and the leaves on the trees make it easier to spot and remove dead or unhealthy branches.

Due to the risk of spreading the disease, transporting or storing elm firewood is illegal. Any elm wood should be disposed of promptly, using the method and locations chosen by each municipality.

For more information about Dutch elm disease or to report a suspicious tree, call 1-800-SASK ELM or your local municipal office.

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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