More Dutch Elm Disease Cases Confirmed
The City of Saskatoon has confirmed nearly two dozen elm trees positive for Dutch elm disease (DED). Of that number, six are on the 200 block of Carleton Drive in the College Park neighbourhood. The infected trees will be removed as part of the City's ongoing response to help slow the spread of the disease.
The six trees are located in a row and represents one of the largest groupings of DED-related elm removals undertaken in Saskatoon to date. A further three removals are happening on the 800 block of Avenue C North, in the Caswell Hill neighbourhood.
The College Park and Caswell HIl cases are among 22 confirmed DED cases identified in Saskatoon so far this year, highlighting the continued spread of the disease across the city. Recent years have seen a significant increase in DED activity, with record case numbers reported in 2025.
"Seeing six mature elm trees removed from a single block and three on another is a reminder of the very real impact Dutch elm disease is having on our neighbourhoods and urban canopy," says Thai Hoang, Director of Parks. "These trees have helped define the character of these streetscapes for decades. While tree removal is never something we take lightly, removing infected trees remains one of the most important actions we can take to help reduce the spread of the disease and protect healthy elms across Saskatoon."
The City will continue surveillance and testing activities in surrounding areas and will inspect nearby properties for stored elm wood, which can harbor elm bark beetles and contribute to the spread of DED. Saskatoon residents are reminded that it is illegal to transport, store, sell or use elm wood. All elm wood must be disposed of appropriately at the City Landfill – there is no charge.
Residents are also encouraged to watch for signs of Dutch elm disease, including yellowing, wilting or browning leaves during the growing season and report suspected cases to the City immediately. Early detection remains a critical component of the City’s DED management efforts.
The provincial elm pruning ban remains in effect annually from April 1 to August 31 to help reduce the risk of spreading the disease.
For more information about Dutch elm disease, including symptoms, regulations and reporting options, visit saskatoon.ca/dutchelmdisease.