Introduction
Ulmus americana, more commonly known as the American elm, is a large tree native to the prairie region. One of the most abundant species of prairie cities, it is a large contributor to our urban forests. This species along with several others within the genus Ulmus are threatened by Dutch elm disease. Dutch elm disease is a fungal disease caused by a pathogen known as Ophiostoma ulmi. In the prairie region Spores of this fungus are spread by the native elm bark beetle. The city of Lethbridge has managed to avoid the ravages of Dutch elm disease. However, this disease remains a constant threat. The intention of this paper is to analyse DED, the impacts it could have and possible solutions. Analysis will focus on six topics; …show more content…
Since there is such a large portion of the population on public land responsibility leans towards the municipality to lead the fight against the disease under a number of prevention regulations provided by the provincial government. (Dutch Elm Disease Prevention/Control Measures, 2017.) A certain degree of responsibility falls onto the public as well. Municipalities implement pruning bans and various controls pertaining to the designation and disposal of elm trees, the public is expected to follow these guidelines and aid in the prevention of DED (Dutch Elm Disease Prevention/Control Measures, 2017.) Since the elm population is split between public and private land both parties must do their part to prevent disease incidence. If infection occurred, concern for the elm population would begin as soon as symptoms started to appear. The municipality would then have to assess threshold levels and determine methods and levels of intervention. If the infestation became extensive it would leave gaps in our boulevards, reduce the esthetics of the city, lower property values and ultimately lead to higher costs than pre-emptive control …show more content…
Many municipalities have implemented prevention, control and reactionary programs with varied results. For example; in Fredericton NB, Dutch elm disease tore through the city wiping out large numbers of elms. A vigorous planting program was then put in place which has been quite successful (as cited in Rioux, 2003.) Winnipeg has seen a large active involvement from its citizens that have helped keep its elm population at a high level. An organization in Winnipeg called ‘’Coalition to save the elms’’ was created by 27 different community groups and host a membership of over 2000 (as cited in Rioux, 2003.) For the cities of Toronto and Montreal results from municipal and public organizations have been quite different. In both cities’ elm populations have been reduced by 80%-90% in either city (as cited in Rioux, 2003.) The involvement of the public at a general and organized level is an essential factor in the sustainability of elms in the urban environment. These organizations should be encouraged and supported by municipal and provincial governments to assure all is being done to prevent