Florida’s citrus growers will get U.S. aid.

The federal government will bear half of the $7.6-million cost of paying indemnities to Florida citrus growers and nursery operators whose plants have been destroyed since last Oct. 17 to eradicate citrus canker. Agriculture Secretary John R. Block announced the decision after meeting with Sen. Paula Hawkins (R.-Fla.), U.S. Agriculture Commissioner Doyle Conner and Florida officials, who said payments could start within 10 days. Payments have been delayed while state and federal officials worked out a common system based on recommendations of joint federal-state committee.