Elm pruning ban starts today across Saskatchewan

A ban on pruning elm trees is now in effect across the province.

The ban is designed to stop the spread of Dutch elm disease. The disease is carried by elm bark beetles, and spreads a fungus that clogs a tree's water conducting system.

Infected trees usually die within one to two years.

The beetles are attracted to freshly pruned trees. The ban is in place during the beetles' most active period.

• 4 trees infected with Dutch elm disease in Regina
• Saskatoon deals with first case of Dutch elm disease

Saskatoon saw its first case of Dutch elm disease last year.

Anyone who wants to prune elm trees must get a permit first.

Early symptoms of Dutch elm disease including branches that wilt, curl, turn yellow and then die.

The pruning ban is lifted August 31.