Help stop the spread of Dutch elm disease; elm pruning ban begins April 1

Cases of Dutch elm disease (DED) reached a record high in Saskatoon last season, putting the city’s beautiful elm canopy at risk. While the disease is serious, there are a few simple steps residents can take to slow the spread and help save our elms, starting with the provincial elm pruning ban.

One in every four trees in Saskatoon is an elm and threatened by DED. The City reminds residents that the provincial ban on pruning elm trees is in effect from April 1 to August 31, 2026.

Elm wood restrictions
It is illegal to store, transport or use elm wood for any purpose. The only permitted movement of elm wood is to the City Landfill, where it can be disposed of at no cost.

Watch for symptoms
Elm trees may begin showing signs of DED in June. Look for: 

• Yellowing leaves 
• Wilting leaves
• Leaves that curl and turn brown

If you suspect an unhealthy elm tree, or if you’re unsure whether your firewood is elm, take a photo and submit it at saskatoon.ca/dutchelmdisease or call Customer Care 306-975-2476.

What is DED?
DED is a serious fungal disease that blocks an elm tree’s ability to move water and nutrients. Once infected, most trees will die. DED has killed millions of elm trees across North America.

How DED spreads
DED spreads mainly through elm bark beetles, which can fly more than two kilometres in search of elm trees. The fungal spores stick to the beetle’s bodies and infect trees as they feed. The fungus can also be spread through root grafts and unsanitized pruning tools.

How you can help stop the spread

• Do not prune elm trees during the provincial pruning ban (April 1 to August 31)
• Do not bring elm wood into Saskatoon, store it or burn it as firewood 
• Dispose of all elm wood only at the City Landfill 
• Sanitize tools after working on elm trees
• Report dead or dying elm trees to the City

Need to prune during the ban?
Pruning elm trees during the provincial ban requires a permit. Call Customer Care at 306-975-2476 for more information.

By following the provincial regulations and maintaining elm trees on private property, residents can help slow the spread of DED in Saskatoon. 

For more information on DED, visit saskatoon.ca/dutchelmdisease.