Dutch elm disease is...

...a wilt disease caused by the fungus Ophiostoma novo-ulmi and only affects trees in the elm family (Ulmaceae).  Dutch elm disease (DED) is spread (vectored) by native elm bark beetles, European elm bark beetles and the banded elm bark beetle in North Dakota. DED is also spread by moving elm firewood from infected trees into new areas. 

Tree mortality can occur within one year of infection, though DED generally takes three years or more to kill a tree. Click here for more information abot DED and its management.

Why is Dutch elm disease a problem?

• Dutch elm disease kills trees rapidly and spreads readily if not properly managed.
• There is no 'cure' for DED and the disease is widespread in urban and rural areas throughout North Dakota.
• Dutch elm disease kills American elm trees, the North Dakota State Tree, which is well-adapted to environmental conditions in our state. 
• Management of Dutch elm disease in North Dakota communities is costly.

 What are the current impacts of Dutch elm disease in North Dakota?

•  Continual need to spend considerable amounts of money to manage Dutch elm disease in North Dakota communities.
•  Continual loss of a prominent, well-adapted tree species in natural settings.
•  Continual incremental loss of a prominent and excellent tree for urban settings.

More information about Dutch Elm Disease (NDSU Extension Publication PP1635): http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs/plantsci/trees/pp1635.pdf

OR: http://plantclinic.cornell.edu/factsheets/dutchelmdisease.pdf