Hi Wyetta:

This is probably damage from the larvae of sawfly, elder shoot borers or cecropia caterpillars, all of which feed on elderberry leaves.  Some options for managing the larvae would be to spray them off with a hose. You can also use neem products.
Beetles are also present during elderberry flowering, where they eat pollen and leaves, and then lay their eggs on leaves or canes near the ground. To control this pest, prune out infested elderberry canes. Borer insects can cause stems to die as well. These are the most common issues on elderberry.

I am not familiar with Buffalo Bushes, but the links below will provide you with information that may help you in your decision to grow them.  Both of these varieties are hardy to Zone 2.  Look for species that do well in poorer soils and are drought tolerant. 

Shepherd-agrentea
Shepherd-canadensis

Thank you for your question,