Confirmed Cases of Dutch Elm Disease in Regina

City of Regina Forestry crews are removing seven elm trees from various locations across the city. The trees were recently identified and tested positive for Dutch elm disease (DED).

To date, 16 elm trees have tested positive for DED in Regina. This early-season total is significantly higher than previous years and raises concern about the disease’s continued spread.

City crews are urging residents not to store or transport elm wood unless it is being transported to a disposal site. Elm wood is an ideal place for the beetles that carry the disease and lay their eggs, making this a key factor in managing the outbreak. Provincial regulations state that elm tree wood cannot be stored, used, marketed or transported for any purpose.

Residents can help prevent the spread of DED and protect Regina’s urban forest by:

• Reporting suspected cases to Service Regina at 306-777-7000 or online at Regina.ca.
• Not storing, transporting or using elm wood as per provincial regulations.
• Inspecting trees regularly for signs of wilting, yellowing leaves or sudden branch dieback, especially in summer.
• Avoiding elm pruning between April 1 and August 31, when DED-carrying beetles are most active.

For more information about Dutch elm disease, including prevention tips and a downloadable brochure, visit Regina.ca/DutchElm.