(Government of Saskatchewan/Submitted)

By 650 CKOM News

Cut it out: Ban on pruning elm trees set to take effect

Mar 25, 2022 | 10:50 AM

It’s nearly time for those with elm trees on their properties to put away the pruning shears.

The Saskatchewan government says the annual ban on pruning elm trees in the province starts next Friday and runs until Aug. 31. It’s illegal to prune elm trees in that time frame to help stop the spread of Dutch elm disease.

The government said fresh cuts on elm trees can attract the elm bark beetles that spread Dutch elm disease. The bugs become more active as the weather warms up.

“The beetles breed in dead and dying elm wood, so pruning your trees before or after the ban period helps reduce beetle populations,” the government said in a media release. “This will also help keep your trees healthy and better able to resist disease.”

People can cut down elm trees, but they have to get rid of the wood properly at designated sites in their area. It’s illegal to transport, store or sell elm firewood or logs.

Raiders AGM

Raiders impact on Prince Albert local economy continues to go up: AGM report

12h ago

Court proceedings

'The impact of this trauma will echo for generations': court case surrounding La Ronge woman's death reaches conclusion

Dec 11, 2024

Going Global

P.A.'s Zablocki named to Team Canada for U18 Women's World Championships

Dec 11, 2024

More information is available by calling municipalities or the Ministry of Environment Inquiry Centre at 1-800-567-4224, or by visiting saskatchewan.ca/forestry.