ROCKFORD, Ill. (AP) – Crop experts say the recent heat and humidity that has hit Illinois is ideal for the state’s soybean and corn crops.

Nikki Keltner is a program coordinator for the University of Illinois Extension, which covers Jo Daviess, Stephenson and Winnebago counties. She says early ear counts indicate above-average corn production in the area unless there is severe weather or other issues.

Premier Cooperative recently completed a survey of local cornfields in Champaign County as well as parts of Vermilion, Piatt and Douglas counties. Scouts estimated an annual yield of 224 bushels per acre, which would top 2014’s record year, when the count was 221.

Premier CEO Roger Miller says the target date to start this season’s harvest is Sept. 15.