What Has Changed?
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has expanded the regulated areas for Dutch elm disease to include all of Saskatchewan and parts of south-central British Columbia (Kootenay region – near Castlegar) as of June 16, 2026.
This expansion is a response to recent detections of DED in Saskatoon (2025) and British Columbia (2024).
Why Is This Important for Alberta?
Alberta remains a DED - free province, and these new movement restrictions are specifically designed to protect Alberta’s trees and urban forests from the spread of this destructive disease.
The restrictions help prevent the movement of potentially infected elm wood, nursery stock, and bark beetles from newly regulated areas into Alberta.
Keep Calm and Carry-on
Municipalities, landscapers, and tree buyers in Alberta can be reassured that proactive steps are being taken to keep DED out of the province. This includes the Clean Plants program, as well as firewood collection movement restrictions.
There may be increased public and media attention about DED, but the CFIA has provided clear contacts for information and support to reduce confusion or panic.
https://inspection.canada.ca/en/plant-health/invasive-species/plant-diseases/dutch-elm-disease
Alberta buyers should continue to source elm trees only from approved, DED-free suppliers and follow any updated guidance from the CFIA or provincial authorities.
Support and Communication
The CFIA encourages anyone with questions or concerns to reach out directly to their local inspection manager or use the provided contact information for technical support.
Ongoing updates and resources are available on the CFIA website to keep Alberta stakeholders informed or through StopDED (https://www.alberta.ca/society-to-prevent-dutch-elm-disease)
The expansion of regulated areas in Saskatchewan and BC is a precautionary measure to protect Alberta’s valuable elm trees and urban forests. Alberta residents and the horticultural industry should remain vigilant but reassured that strong safeguards are in place to prevent the introduction and spread of Dutch Elm Disease into the province.