The greatest cooperative effort of taxonomists in the United States of America and Canada to study flora of this continent has come to an abrupt end after seven years of preparatory work. Financial support from government agency has been withdrawn and all significant projects have no alternative but to be closed down. (PS)

Reviews historical background surrounding the origins of the Competitive Research Grants Office, established in 1978 to support basic research related to agriculture. Describes current controversy within the legislature which threatens its existence. (CS)