Elm Tree Pruning Ban April 1 - August 31

🔔‼️Elm tree pruning is prohibited April 1 - August 31.

🌿Each year, the ban is in place to help stop the spread of Dutch elm disease (DED) across Saskatchewan. Dutch elm disease is a fatal tree disease caused by a fungus spread by elm bark beetles. As the weather warms, the beetles become more active and are attracted to fresh cuts on trees. Pruning in spring and summer increases the chances of an infection and puts your elms at risk.

🌿Pruning trees from September 1st to the end of March 2026 will help keep them healthy and better able to resist all kinds of diseases, including DED. Pruning also removes the dead and dying wood where elm bark beetles breed, reducing beetle numbers.
Residents may deposit branch trimmings at the wood pile north of the Transfer Station (Nicole Avenue/Elevator Road accessible via Magnan/HWY #58).

🌿Pruning incorrectly can damage your trees and spread diseases. If you hire someone to prune your trees, check their qualifications. Anyone who prunes elm trees commercially must have completed a recognized training program or be supervised by someone who has.

🪵Removing a diseased elm tree is allowed during the ban period, but it's important to dispose of all elm wood properly, as soon as possible. Contact the Town Office at 306-648-3301 x3 if you have questions regarding disposal.

⚠️Because transporting wood can also spread DED, other insects, and diseases, it's illegal to use, transport, store or sell elm firewood. Provincial regulations also restrict the use, transport, storage, and sale of elm logs.

For more information, contact the Ministry of Environment's Inquiry Centre at 1-800-567-4224 or visit https://www.saskatchewan.ca/business/agriculture-natural-resources-and-industry/forestry/forest-health