Minnesota Science
Vol. 48, No. 2
A Minnesota History of Dutch Elm Disease
by Larry Etkin
What went wrong with our handling of Dutch elm disease? Was the death of so many fine shade trees inevitable? Are other urban forest epidemics in our future?
No crystal ball foretells the future, but lessons can be learned from our failures in dealing with Dutch elm disease. Lessons of history may help us avoid future urban forest devastation, and retired experiment station plant pathologist Dave French details our mistakes in a new publication.
"History of Dutch Elm Disease in Minnesota" tells how the deadly elm fungus came to be established in Minnesota, when many experts thought we were too far north to have many worries. French relates how government actions and inaction each contributed to the early spread of Dutch elm disease. But, he also discusses how its devastating impact on urban landscapes has finally been brought under control through continuing vigilance and sanitation – regular inspections and prompt removal and disposal of infected wood.
Despite the devastation, French says, there will continue to be elms in our future. The elm is a hardy and prolific tree. There are resistant varieties being evaluated for their growth and shade tree qualities. There also are expensive techniques to keep our more valuable elms healthy.
History of Dutch Elm Disease in Minnesota was written for urban foresters, environmentalists, the general public and governmental representatives. Copies cost $3 (plus tax for Minnesota addresses). Contact your county extension office, or the Distribution Center, 20 Coffey Hall, 1420 Eckles Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108-6069. Ask for publication MR-3765-MS.