(AP) — The Nebraska Forest Service is warning about a tree disease that is spreading from the eastern part of the state.

Experts say pine wilt preys on the water flow of Scots and Austrian pines, and is caused by a worm-like pest called a nematode. Experts say the disease affects non-native pines in Nebraska.

Pine wilt was first identified in Missouri in the 1970s and has spread from southeastern Nebraska to the rest of the state. While less common northwest of Kearney and Norfolk, the disease has been reported as far west as Scottsbluff.

Mark Harrell of the Nebraska Forest Service says the disease can kill susceptible trees quickly.