Elm Pruning Regulations in Calgary - Last Call for 2025!

Hello, Calgary! As we approach the end of this year's elm pruning season, Apex Tree Service wants to ensure you're fully informed about the regulations and why this is the last call for elm tree care in 2025.

Understanding Elm Pruning Regulations

In Calgary, and indeed across Alberta, elm tree pruning is tightly regulated to prevent the spread of Dutch Elm Disease (DED), a devastating fungal disease that has decimated elm populations across North America. Here's what you need to know:

- Pruning Ban Period:

From April 1 to September 30, there's a strict ban on pruning elm trees. This period coincides with the active season of the elm bark beetle, which carries the DED fungus. Pruning during this time can attract these beetles to fresh cuts, potentially infecting healthy trees.

- Pruning Window:

The safe period for pruning elms in Calgary is from October 1 to March 31. This time frame is set because elm bark beetles are less active or dormant, reducing the risk of disease transmission.

- Disposal of Elm Wood:

All pruned elm wood must be disposed of by burning, chipping, or burying by March 31 to eliminate beetle habitats. It's illegal to store elm wood as it can harbor beetles, even in winter.

Why This is Last Call for 2025

As we're now into February 2025, this is literally the last call for pruning your elm trees. Here's why you should act now:

- Prevent Disease: Pruning removes dead or dying branches, reducing beetle habitats and thus the spread of DED.

- Tree Health: Proper pruning by certified arborists like those at Apex Tree Service can significantly enhance the health and longevity of your elms. It improves structure, promotes new growth, and can increase resistance to other stresses.

- Legal Compliance: Adhering to the pruning schedule helps you avoid fines and contributes to the collective effort to keep Calgary DED-free.

How Apex Tree Service Can Help

At Apex Tree Service, we specialize in expert elm tree maintenance:

- Compliance with Regulations: We are well-versed in all local, provincial regulations, ensuring your tree care practices are fully compliant.

- Proper Disposal: We handle the disposal of elm wood according to the guidelines, ensuring no risk of disease spread.

- Emergency Pruning: If your tree suffers damage outside the pruning period, we can help assess if emergency pruning is necessary and obtain the required permits.

Act Now!

If you haven't scheduled your elm tree pruning yet, now is the time! Contact Apex Tree Service at [your contact info] to book your appointment. We're here to help keep your elm trees healthy and beautiful while protecting our city’s urban forest from Dutch Elm Disease.

Let's work together to preserve Calgary's majestic elms for future generations. Remember, this is your last chance to prune until October 2025. Stay informed, stay safe, and let's keep our elms thriving!

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Note: For more detailed information, you can visit the [Alberta.ca](www.alberta.ca) website or contact the Society to Prevent Dutch Elm Disease (STOPDED) for further guidance.

Stay green, Calgary!

Apex Tree Service - Your Partner in Tree Care.

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