Saskatoon reports new cases of Dutch elm disease with removal planned
Dutch elm disease is caused by a deadly fungus that spreads through elm roots and by a specific species of bark beetle that carries the fungus from tree to tree.
Saskatoon has confirmed additional cases of Dutch elm disease, prompting the city to plan for the removal of infected trees. Six cases were identified on the 200 block of Carleton Drive in the College Park neighbourhood, marking one of the largest groupings of elm removals due to the disease. Three more removals are scheduled on the 800 block of Avenue C North in the Caswell Hill neighbourhood.
This brings the total number of confirmed cases in Saskatoon this year to 22, marking a significant increase from previous years, with 2025 seeing record case numbers.
Thai Hoang, the city's director of parks, emphasized the impact of Dutch elm disease on neighbourhoods and the urban canopy. Surveillance and testing efforts are ongoing in surrounding areas, with inspections for stored elm wood at nearby properties planned. Elm wood is prohibited from being transported, stored, sold, or used, and must be disposed of at the city landfill for free.
Dutch elm disease is caused by a fungus spread through elm roots and by bark beetles carrying the fungus. Symptoms include wilting, drooping, and curling of leaves on one or more branches, which may turn brown and remain on the tree. Late-season infections result in yellowing and premature leaf drop. Peeling back bark on infected twigs reveals brown staining in the sapwood.
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