The City of Edmonton has discovered another confirmed case of Dutch elm disease.

The Killarney private tree is the fifth tree in Edmonton infected with the deadly fungus.

It was found in the same area where four other infected trees were found in August.

The tree was tested in late September, but the results were negative.

Later, city crews conducting follow-up assessments noticed that the tree’s health had deteriorated rapidly and was showing signs of the disease.

A new test came back positive on Thursday.

The City is working with the owner to have the tree removed as quickly as possible.

Dutch elm disease is spread by three species of beetles, as well as from tree to tree via the root system. The fungus that causes it interferes with a tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients and can kill a tree in as little as three weeks.

The city said the disease has killed millions of elm trees in North America since its introduction from Europe about 90 years ago.

Edmonton has approximately 90,000 city-owned elm trees and a protocol for Dutch elm disease was developed in 2020 after the disease was discovered in Lethbridge.

“The city’s arborists and foresters remain vigilant as they continue to implement the established action plan, including intensified monitoring of elm trees in the protocol area,” said Mark Beare, director of infrastructure operations for the city. ‘Edmonton.

“This additional confirmed case does not change our approach as we continue assessment, sampling and testing to contain the spread of Dutch elm disease.”

Residents are encouraged to learn about the signs of Dutch elm disease and keep private elm trees trimmed and healthy, as the beetles are attracted to damaged or diseased trees.

It is illegal in Edmonton to store or transport elm wood. Pruned branches or damaged tree wood should be burned immediately or disposed of at the Edmonton Waste Management Center at 250 Aurum Road.

More information about the disease can be found at City of Edmonton website.