Fall 2024
The City of Saskatoon Parks Department has confirmed a new positive case of Dutch elm disease (DED) in an elm tree in the Varsity View neighbourhood and has initiated its DED Response Plan. DED is a serious disease caused by a fungus that clogs the elm tree’s water and nutrient conducting system, which eventually causes the tree to die. In Saskatoon, elms make up 25% of our urban forest. Help protect our elms by learning how you can help prevent DED.
What is DED?
DED is a serious disease caused by a fungus that clogs the elm tree’s water and nutrient conducting system, which eventually causes the tree to die. DED was introduced in North America in the 1930s and has since wiped out millions of elms across Canada and the United States.
How is DED spread?
In Saskatchewan, the disease is spread by several species of elm bark beetles. These beetles can fly farther than two kilometres in search of elm trees. The DED fungus has tiny spores that stick to the body of the beetle. Elm bark beetles can carry these spores and infect other elm trees. The fungus can also be spread through root grafts between trees and by infected pruning tools.
What does DED look like?
American elm trees with DED may start showing symptoms as early as June. Typically, the leaves will start to wilt and turn yellow, then curl and turn brown. Residents who start to notice any of these symptoms, are encouraged to complete the online form below or call Urban Biological Services at 306-975-2890.