The economies of 10 non-urban areas in the central United States continue to expand, according to a survey of bank CEOs.

The overall Rural Mainstreet Index remained above growth neutral for the eighth consecutive month, rising to 56 in June from 54.9 in May. But growth could be slowed by flooding and other weather-related issues in the months ahead.

The economic confidence index, which reflects expectations for the economy six months out, slipped to 55.3 in June from 63.7 in May.

“Even though confidence remains fairly robust, flooding and other weather-related issues in areas of the region eroded confidence among some of the bankers,” said Ernie Goss, an economist with Creighton University.

A number of bankers who participated in this month’s survey expressed concerns over the flooding of the Missouri River. Glenwood State Bank President Larry Winum said the flooding will adversely affect agriculture, businesses and communities along the river.

Bankers from Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming are included in the monthly survey, which focuses on about 200 agriculturally dependent areas with average populations of 1,300 people.
 
The overall Rural Mainstreet Index for Iowa increased to 56.6 in June from May’s 55.5. The state’s farmland price index plummeted to 63.6 from 76.6, and the farm equipment sales index sank to 64.7 from 67.5.