Edmontonians can resume pruning elm trees on Thursday, when Alberta’s seasonal ban ends. The provincial restriction will remain lifted until March 31, 2027, and city crews will soon begin trimming Edmonton’s nearly 90,000 elms to help prevent the spread of Dutch elm disease.

The ban ran from April 1 to Sept. 30 because bark beetles that can transmit the disease are attracted to the scent of fresh cuts. Edmonton has recorded 17 cases since Dutch elm disease was first detected in the city in 2024. Ten of those cases occurred this year, and the affected trees have been safely removed, the city said in a citywide media release.

The city is coordinating with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and the Alberta Plant Health Laboratory to assess and test trees showing symptoms. Residents must burn pruned elm wood immediately or take it to the Edmonton Waste Management Centre for free disposal. Storing elm wood is prohibited.

Residents can report trees with possible signs of infection to 311. Symptoms include wilted, drooping or curling leaves that turn brown and remain on the tree, as well as peeling bark on infected twigs.

Based on reporting by CTV News Edmonton.