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Saskatchewan removes infected elm trees across province

The Regina-based Northern Tree Co. Inc. has been contracted by the Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Environment to remove and dispose of infected elm trees in high-risk areas.

Dutch elm disease (DED) puts Saskatchewan’s urban and rural forests at risk, especially in the eastern half of the province, the ministry said in a statement. Slowing the spread of DED is a critical part of forest health. Early detection and prompt removal of diseased American elm trees is key to slow the spread of this disease.

“Dutch elm disease is an ongoing concern for Saskatchewan residents and wildlife,” Environment Minister Dana Skoropad said. “We are pleased to continue working with a local company on this important initiative to protect and maintain our urban and rural forests.”

To prevent the disease from spreading into urban forests, the DED program manages wild elm trees in buffer zones established around high-risk communities, including:

• Balcarres
• Estevan
• Indian Head
• Melfort
• Moose Jaw
• Regina
• Tisdale
• Wolseley

Survey contractors will be in these areas over summer marking trees for removal. Northern Tree Co. Inc. will follow with removal of diseased trees in the fall and early winter.

The ministry is reminding residents it’s illegal to use, transport, store or buy elm firewood and to not prune elms between April 1 to August 31.

Learn more: www.saskatchewan.ca/government/news-and-media/2022/july/25/protecting-our-forests-from-dutch-elm-disease