Saskatchewan’s annual ban on pruning elm trees takes effect on Thursday.

The ban, which last until August 31st, helps the province curb the spread of Dutch elm disease.

DED is spread by elm bark beetles, who are attracted by fresh cuts from trimming.

To help protect the community’s elm trees, residents are asked to prune elms before or after the ban period, remove unhealthy and dead elm wood cuts, and report trees that are showing signs of Dutch Elm Disease.