Nearly two dozen new cases of Dutch elm disease found in Saskatoon this year

Saskatoon’s urban forest has suffered a major blow, as 22 new cases of Dutch elm disease have been discovered in the city this year.

Six of the affected trees are located in a row on the 200 block of Carleton Drive in College Park. Another group of three is in the 800 block of Avenue C North in Caswell Hill.

All of the infected trees either have been or will be removed.

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“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,” said Thai Hoang, director of parks for the City of Saskatoon.

The signs of Dutch elm disease include yellowing, wilting or browning leaves.(City of Saskatoon/submitted)

“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.”

In a statement, the city said it will continue to monitor and test trees in the city to try to limit the spread of the disease.

Officials also reminded residents 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 asked to keep an eye out for signs of Dutch elm disease, which include yellowing, wilting or browning leaves. Any suspected cases should be reported to the city immediately.

The provincial pruning ban, which began April 1, will be in effect until Aug. 31.