Some Illinois Farmers Predict Later Corn Harvest

Some Illinois farmers say this year's corn harvest could be later — and more expensive — than usual.

The Quincy Herald Whig reports wet, cloudy days and cooler temperatures have slowed the crop's progress.

Adam Kestner farms in western Illinois and is vice president of the Adams County Farm Bureau.

At the start of growing season he expected an early harvest because farmers were able to plant earlier this year. But now Kestner is predicting a "long, drawn-out harvest" starting in the middle of September.

Kestner says recent warmer temperatures have helped, but "we could use less moisture in the forecast."

The mild summer also could mean farmers will incur additional costs to dry corn. If corn isn't dry enough, there can be issues with mold during long-term storage.