July 22, 2026

The City of Moose Jaw is reminding residents that it is illegal to store, transport, or use elm trees as firewood in the Province of Saskatchewan without authorization.

Elm trees can be susceptible to Dutch Elm Disease (DED), a deadly fungal infection spread by elm bark beetles as they fly from tree to tree.

Due to transmission of DED being more likely when the beetles are active during the spring and summer months, there is an annual elm tree pruning ban in effect in Saskatchewan from April 1 through August 31.

Residents are also reminded that elm wood should never be stored and should be taken directly to the landfill for disposal.

Macro-root injections of a fungicide into a healthy tree’s root flare by a qualified arborist may be used to prevent DED; however, residents should note that while this may reduce risk, it does not guarantee protection.

Residents are encouraged to actively monitor their trees for signs of DED, which can include:

• Leaves suddenly yellowing, wilting, curling, or browning
• Premature leaf drop
• Dead branches, or brown streaking beneath the bark of affected branches

If you suspect a tree has DED, please report its location to the City of Moose Jaw Community Recreation and Parks Services Department at 306-694-4447, or through ‘Report an Issue’ on MooseJaw.ca or on the free City of Moose Jaw app. If possible, include photos that show the affected tree, including its leaves and branches.

You can find more information on the Province of Saskatchewan’s Dutch Elm Disease page, or the City of Moose Jaw website here: Dutch Elm Disease | City of Moose Jaw.