The annual Dutch elm pruning ban is now over for 2011 in Alberta.
It is in effect during the time of year when elm bark beetles are potentially most active.
Pruning elm trees is prohibited throughout Alberta from April 1 to Sept. 30 to reduce the risk of the disease.
Fresh cuts from pruning may attract the beetles that can spread the disease, increasing the chance of an infection. Once they have infected an area, elm bark beetles will feed on healthy elms during the growing season and then breed and overwinter in dead and dying elm trees.
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Pruning remains an important part of regular elm tree care and is encouraged in Alberta, before and after the annual ban period. Proper pruning helps keep trees healthy and better able to resist disease.
The removal of dead and dying elm wood through pruning also helps reduce beetle breeding habitat and control potential beetle populations.
Prompt and proper disposal of pruned wood is also essential to keep the disease from spreading.
For more information, call the STOPDED hotline at 877-837-3567 or visit www.stopded.org.
