(AP) — Big Island coffee farmers are expected to receive $300,000 from the state to help them battle a disease that can kill coffee trees. The money to fight coffee leaf rust comes from the state Department of Agriculture thanks to a bill passed by the Legislature. West Hawaiʻi Today reports the County Council is expected to accept the money. Coffee leaf rust is caused by a fungus. Leaves drop off infected trees, which have significantly lower yields and may die in a few years. Experts say timely application of fungicide sprays can partially control the disease or slow its spread.

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