YORKTON — Nine elm trees are being tested for Dutch elm disease (DED) following Yorkton’s annual survey, while inspectors found no violations of provincial regulations.
The citywide inspection was conducted July 8-10 by Living Tree Environmental Ltd., which carried out visual assessments of American elm trees throughout Yorkton. The survey focused on identifying signs of Dutch elm disease, locating hazardous trees and monitoring compliance with Saskatchewan’s DED regulations.
Inspectors found no violations during the survey. However, nine trees displaying symptoms consistent with DED or other health concerns were identified, and samples were collected for laboratory analysis.
The city has confirmed cases of Dutch elm disease in each of the past four years, highlighting the continued need for monitoring and early detection.
The city says its response plan includes:
- Removing and properly disposing of hazardous or infected elm trees
- Testing nearby elm trees for signs of infection
- Expanding inspections in affected areas
- Increasing public education and awareness efforts
Parks manager Matt Charney said the disease continues to affect communities across Saskatchewan.
“We’re reminding residents about the current elm pruning ban and encouraging them to report stored elm wood, as well as dead or declining elm trees,” said Charney. “Community awareness and cooperation are important tools in helping prevent the spread of the disease.”
Dutch elm disease is caused by a fungus that disrupts a tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients, eventually killing it. Since arriving in North America in the 1930s, the disease has killed millions of elm trees across Canada and the United States.
Elm trees make up approximately 25 per cent of Yorkton’s public tree inventory, making them an important part of the city’s urban forest.
The disease is primarily spread by elm bark beetles, which carry fungal spores from infected trees to healthy ones. The fungus can also be spread through contaminated pruning equipment.
The city is encouraging residents to:
- Avoid pruning elm trees between April 1 and Aug. 31
- Refrain from transporting, storing or burning elm wood
- Dispose of elm wood at the city landfill
- Sanitize tools after working on elm trees
- Report dead, dying or unhealthy elm trees
Symptoms of Dutch elm disease can begin appearing as early as June. Infected trees often develop wilting leaves that turn yellow, curl and eventually become brown.
Residents who suspect an elm tree may be infected, or who are unsure whether wood in their possession is elm, can contact the city’s Recreation and Community Services Department at 306-786-1750, email parksandrec@yorkton.ca or visit yorkton.ca/dutchelmdisease for more information.
