Elm Pruning Ban Starts April 1

To prevent the spread of Dutch Elm Disease (DED), the province-wide pruning ban for all species of elm trees will be in effect from April 1 through to September 30, 2023.  Residents are reminded to complete their elm tree upkeep by March 31 as pruning elm trees during the summer could provide entry sites for Elm Bark Beetles (EBB). EBB are a carrier of the DED fungus, and can possibly infect a healthy tree that's been cut.

Preventative pruning of dead, damaged or diseased elm trees or their limbs should be removed and properly disposed of prior to April 1. For more information on the proper disposal of elms in Lethbridge, please visit the Yard Waste Recycling page on the city's website.

Residents are also reminded to watch for symptoms of Dutch Elm Disease on trees in their neighbourhoods. From mid-June through July the leaves on infected trees will wilt, curl up and turn brown. Leaves on trees infected late in the season will turn yellow and drop prematurely.

Report elm trees displaying these symptoms to the City of Lethbridge by calling 311 or contact the Provincial Hotline: 1-877-837-ELMS (3567).

For Public Inquiries:

Call 311 |  Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.