BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) - North Dakota’s rural economy showed modest resilience in September, even as the broader 10-state Rural Mainstreet region slipped further into negative territory, according to a monthly survey of bank CEOs.

The state’s overall Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI) rose to 52.2 from 50.4 in August, remaining above the growth-neutral threshold of 50.0. In contrast, the regional index fell to 38.5, marking the seventh time this year it has dipped below growth neutral.

Despite the uptick in North Dakota’s overall index, signs of strain persist. Farmland prices in the state declined to 46.4 from 49.7, continuing a 17-month trend of sub-neutral readings across the region. Hiring also slowed, with the state’s employment index slipping to 59.4 from 60.3.

Bankers across the region e

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