The seasonal upswing in unemployment came (too) early this year and the November 2011 level nudged up to 12.6%. The good news is that this is still below the 2011 levels. It is higher than expected, however; although we have to keep in mind that these numbers are preliminary. If the numbers stay as they are, this sudden increase in unemployment is caused by a reduction of almost 200 jobs in the region per November, bringing the job pool from 3760 down to 3570. This level of 3570 more closely matches the pre-Tamarack times. Stay tuned for next month’s data.

For more details and graphic representation:

• Valley County: Economic Development Council website
• Adams County: page