The Nebraska Forest Service is preparing communities in the state for the possible onset of several pests and diseases, starting with an inventory and assessment of trees in North Platte.

The forest service and the city of North Platte began conducting an inventory of the city's trees last week through the Community Threat Assessment Protocol, a program funded through a grant from the United States Forest Service.

Project coordinator Adam Smith says that the survey results could be back next spring, as the state prepares communities for the possible onset of diseases in ash trees, scotch pines and walnuts.