CROPS SUFFER MINIMAL DAMAGE THIS WEEK

(CARBONDALE) It appears the cold blast of air that hit Illinois earlier this week did little to no damage to downstate crops. State Ag officials say early reports suggest some crops, including peaches and winter wheat, managed to escape any problems, although they are quick to note that with April 30th considered to be the frost-free date, there is still a long way to go with the crops escaping damage. Some say the significant amount of rain received earlier in March helped offset the cold weather at the beginning of this week. Officials say really, only time will tell.