SALEM, Ore. – Oregon's economy is recovering slowly but steadily according to the latest forecast from state economists. But not all parts of the state are along for the ride.
Some economic indicators are looking up in Oregon. That's according to state economist Mark McMullen. But he told state lawmakers that even though the pace has been slow statewide, it's even worse once you get away from the Willamette Valley and the Columbia Gorge.
"About an hour south of the Columbia River, we've seen no job gains since the worst of the recession," McMullen said.
That statement rings true for Grant County Judge Mark Webb. He says his county just hasn't recovered from a downturn in the timber industry.
"We're rather isolated both in terms of transportation and geography," Webb says. "So we're kind of on our own out here."
Grant County's unemployment rate is among the highest in Oregon, at just over 13 percent. In Washington state, the highest unemployment rates are also found in rural counties.
On the Web:
Oregon economic and revenue forecast: http://www.oregon.gov/DAS/OEA/docs/economic/forecast0612.pdf
Copyright 2012 Northwest News Network
Copyright 2012 Northwest News Network
