The Town of Stony Plain Strengthens Efforts to Prevent Dutch Elm Disease

STONY PLAIN, AB: The Town of Stony Plain remains committed to protecting the community’s trees through ongoing, proactive management. This includes regular surveillance and control of fast spreading diseases posing a risk to local vegetation. Dutch Elm Disease (DED) is spreading in Alberta and causes significant damage to elm trees. 

Dutch Elm Disease can affect all elm species. It is caused by a fungus that clogs an elm trees’ water-conducting system, causing the tree to die. Most signs of DED appear in late spring and early summer as hanging, wilted branches, cracked bark with red-brown streaks, and yellowed, curling leaves that stay on the branch. 

DED is an aggressive, expensive fungus that can kill elm trees in as little as three weeks. The fungus is primarily spread via beetles, as they are attracted to weak, dying elm trees, and through open pruning wounds during wet, warm weather. Summer is the ideal season for identifying and testing trees for Dutch Elm Disease. Residents who have concerns about the health of their trees are encouraged to submit a Report It form. 

DED can be managed with early identification and proper pruning. The best time to prune is when trees are dormant. Trees can be pruned between October 1 and March 31, pruning outside this window is prohibited under legislated pruning ban, as open wounds can create a breeding ground for beetles and fungi to spread. 

“Dutch Elm Disease presents a risk to the communities elm trees, proactive identification is essential to limiting the spread,” says Mayor William Choy. “Maintaining the health of the town’s trees is vital for both the well being of the community today and for future generations.” 

The Town is responsible under the Agricultural Pest Act for pruning and identifying trees on public property, including open spaces and boulevard trees. Residents are encouraged to contribute to these efforts by regularly monitoring their trees for symptoms of Dutch Elm Disease, following recommended pruning guidelines, and becoming familiar with the signs and symptoms. 

“It is important to spot Dutch Elm Disease early and make a plan,” says Darcy Carter, Parks and Leisure Supervisor. “By staying vigilant, following proper pruning guidelines, and reporting any signs of disease, residents play a vital role in protecting our community’s tree canopy. When we work together, we can slow the spread of Dutch Elm Disease and preserve the health of our urban forest.”

Guidance on identifying Dutch Elm Disease, proper pruning timelines, and disposal practices is outlined on Plants and Trees as part of the Town’s ongoing tree health management efforts.