Environment

Tennessee’s strawberry crop looks to be the best in years, despite recent frosts. Agriculture Department spokesperson Tammy Algood says the mild winter and warm spring have ripened the fruit more than in a typical year. That means it has increased sugar levels which make it more cold tolerant. She also says growers are used to close calls and are set up to react to cold weather. Algood says strawberry lovers should call ahead if they plan to visit a patch. She says a patch filled with ripe berries on Friday could be picked clean by Saturday, then ready for another crowd by Tuesday.

The US Coast Guard will begin a formal hearing today to hear testimony regarding the collision between a cargo ship and the Eggner’s Ferry Bridge in late January. January 26th, the cargo ship Delta Mariner struck the span crossing Kentucky Lake causing portions to collapse. There were no deaths or injuries. Coast Guard officials say the purpose of the investigation is to examine the causes of the incident and make recommendations to help avoid similar incidents. It is not intended to determine civil or criminal responsibility.

The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area could see a change in services in the coming months as federal maintenance funds for the park are cut in half. At a public meeting last night, Forest Service officials met with area residents to determine what park users don't want to lose... and what they can live without. LBL Area Supervisor Bill Lisowski says the cuts were made to the park maintenance account. Lisowski says the maintenance fund covers everything in the park from roadwork to campsite upkeep.

Dave Washburn says the cold weather may have dampened fishing conditions, but didn’t stop it completely.

Dave Washburn here, with the FLW Weekly Fishing Report.

The National Weather Service has issued a freeze warning for the region tonight. A clear sky and lack of wind between 3 and 8 am will bring temperatures near or below freezing. The NWS suggests disconnecting water hoses to reduce the risk of burst pipes and take in or cover plants sensitive to cold. Click here for a complete list of counties effected by the advisory.

Mammoth Cave National Park is offering two free cave tours later this month in recognition of National Park Week.

 Visitors must pick up tickets for the free tours of the Discovery and Mammoth Passage caves, which are being given April 21-29.     Park Superintendent Patrick Reed says outdoor activities benefitnot only physical and mental health, but "it's just plain fun."