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March 31, 2010
(Red Deer, Alberta) – Pruning elm trees can increase the risk of Dutch Elm Disease (DED) becoming established in Alberta, so The City of Red Deer Parks staff reminds residents that an elm pruning ban is in effect from April 1 to September 30 each year.
“When a tree is pruned, the fresh cut can attract the beetles that carry the disease,” said Elaine Johnson, Urban Forester for The City of Red Deer. “By not pruning elm trees, the public is helping to protect elms throughout our city.”
DED is a fungal disease and is spread from one tree to the next by the feeding activity of elm bark beetles. Since the beetle is attracted to fresh cuts on elms, recently pruned trees become prime targets for beetle attacks. “The beetles are active during the spring, summer and early fall, which is why the pruning ban is in effect at that time,” said Johnson. “By eliminating the scent of fresh tree cuts, which attracts the beetles, the pruning ban helps to prevent the potential spread of the disease.”
Alberta remains free of DED at this time, but Johnson notes that the disease is currently in Saskatchewan, as well as in Montana, and there is concern that it will spread into our province. “In addition to the pruning ban, citizens can also take other precautions with elm trees,” she said. “Never transport or store elm firewood and, if you have elm trees on your property, make sure to water and inspect them regularly throughout the growing season.”
Leaves on a DED-infected elm will wilt or droop, curl and become brown, appearing in mid-June to mid-July. Leaves on trees infected later in the season usually turn yellow and drop prematurely, which can sometimes be confused with normal seasonal changes. To help differentiate between infection and seasonal changes, the public can look for brown staining under the bark, which often accompanies the leaf symptoms. A confirmed DED tree must be removed immediately to prevent further spread.
Infected elms, or those suspected of being infected, should be reported to the City of Red Deer Parks Section at 403-342-8234 or to the DED toll-free hotline at 1-877-837-ELMS (3567). Residents can call the same number to get more information about DED, or visit www.stopded.org.
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For more information, please contact:
Elaine Johnson
Urban Forester
The City of Red Deer
403-342-8234
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