Elm tree pruning ban in effect in Alberta

The province has enacted their elm tree pruning ban for the season to prevent the risk of elm bark beetles spreading Dutch Elm Disease. These beetles hatch in sick and week elm trees and spread fungus once they fly over to another tree.

The City of Lethbridge is echoing the notice by reminding residents not to store, sell or transport any elm wood during this time.

The last known case of Dutch Elm Disease in Lethbridge affected two trees back in 2020. The ban remains in place province-wide until September 30^th.