The ban on pruning elm trees in Saskatchewan takes effect this coming Friday. The ban is put into place each year to help stem the spread of Dutch elm disease and remains in effect until August 31st.  

Dutch elm disease is spread via the elm bark beetle, which is attracted to fresh cuts on trees. They start to become more active as the weather warms up in the spring. 

The beetle breeds in dead and dying elmwood, so pruning before the ban takes effect helps to reduce the insect population. To help keep breeding areas limited for the beetle, trimmings from elm trees must also be disposed of promptly and properly. You can contact your local municipality to find out where your designated disposal site for elmwood is. 

In Saskatchewan, it is illegal to use, transport, store or sell elm firewood. There are also restrictions on the use, transport and storage of elm logs.