Unemployment rate down in Wahkiakum

Wahkiakum County's rate of unemployment dropped over two percentage points to 12.7 percent for June, according to the latest statistics from the state Employment Security Department.

The figures said 220 of 1,710 people in the labor force, 12.7 percent, were unemployed in June. In May, 250 of 1,650 in the labor force, 14.9 percent, were out of work. In May, 2008, 130 of 1,800, 7.2 percent, were out of work.

Washington’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased to 9.3 percent in June, up from May’s revised rate of 9.1 percent, according to the report.

Washington had 117,800 fewer jobs last month than in June 2008, a 4 percent decrease. Nationally, employment declined by 4.1 percent over the past year. An estimated 329,983 people in Washington were unemployed and looking for work in June.

“Although we are still in recession, the rate of job loss and the rise in unemployment appear to be moderating somewhat,” said Dr. Greg Weeks, who heads Employment Security’s labor-market information office.

“I am confident the steps we are taking at the state and federal levels will help us pull out of the most challenging economic times since the Depression,” Gov. Chris Gregoire said. “We are beginning to see signs that our economy may be stabilizing and recovery efforts are working, but it will take time.”

Wahkiakum's unemployment rate was fourth highest. Skamania County hit 13.5 percent, Pend Oreille 13.4 percent and Lewis 12.8 percent. Cowlitz County also had 12.7 percent and was listed as highest among the metropolitan areas. Clark County came in at 12.6 percent. Pacific County had 12 percent; down from 13 percent in May.

San Juan County had the state's lowest rate, 5.4 percent. In metropolitan areas, Kennewick had the lowest rate, 6.5 percent.