Free Elm Wood Disposal offered throughout October at the City Landfill
Between October 1 and October 31, the City of Saskatoon is pleased to offer its residents the opportunity to dispose of elm wood at the Landfill at no cost. This initiative aims to encourage the prompt removal and proper disposal of elm wood, reducing the risk of disease transmission to healthy elm trees.
“Elm trees hold a special place in our urban landscape, providing shade, enhancing aesthetics, and supporting local biodiversity. However, they face a serious threat from diseases like Dutch Elm Disease. To help manage this issue effectively and limit the spread, it is crucial to ensure proper disposal of all elm wood,” says Konrad Andre, Parks Operations Manager.
This one-month pilot project means that residents may dispose of Elm wood, including branches, logs and other elm debris, at the Landfill during regular operating hours through October at no cost. The Saskatoon Regional Waste Management Centre (Landfill) is located along Valley Road, south of 11th Street.
“By taking advantage of this free elm wood disposal pilot program, residents and businesses can play an active role in protecting our urban canopy and preserving the natural beauty of our community,” says Andre. “Timely disposal of elm wood can significantly reduce the risk of Dutch elm disease and support the health of our elm tree population.”
What is DED?
DED is a serious fungal disease that impacts an elm tree’s water and nutrient conducting system, which eventually causes the tree to die. In Saskatoon, elms make up 25% of the public urban forest.
How is DED spread?
In Saskatchewan, the disease is spread by several species of elm bark beetles. These beetles can fly farther than two kilometres in search of elm trees and are attracted to the scent of pruned or damaged trees and firewood. The DED fungus has tiny spores that stick to the bodies of bark beetles and they can carry these spores and infect other elm trees. The fungus can also be spread by infected pruning tools.
You can help prevent DED by:
- Never storing elm wood or branches. Don’t buy or take elm wood from anyone and don’t burn it. Elm firewood is the best habitat for bark beetles.
- Disposing of elm wood at the Saskatoon Regional Waste Management Centre (Landfill). Do not take elm to the compost depot or put it in your green bin. Dispose of it immediately, even if it is during the provincial ban.
- Reporting dead or dying elm trees or branches to the city or to a professional arborist.
How to identify and report unhealthy elm trees and firewood
American elm trees with DED may start showing symptoms as early as June. Typically, the leaves will start to wilt and turn yellow, then curl and turn brown. If you suspect an unhealthy elm tree or are unsure of what type of firewood you have, take a photo and complete the online form at saskatoon.ca/dutchelmdisease or call Urban Forestry at 306-975-2890.
For more information on DED, visit saskatoon.ca/dutchelmdisease.