By ASHLEY TRUJILLO
Daily Press Staff Writer
Eddy County is one of the least economically stressed counties in the nation, according to The Associated Press Economic Stress Index.
Recently released data shows the county to be 17th among the least economically stressed counties in the nation, according to March 2011 stress scores.
“I think the fact that a large portion of our economy is based in oil and gas has a great deal to do with it,” Michael Bunt, economic development director for the Artesia Chamber of Commerce, said. “We have a well-diversified economy thanks to agriculture, oil and gas, WIPP and FLETC.”
Unemployment rates in Eddy County are significantly lower in comparison with the nation. According to a report from the Associated Press, the national unemployment rate is currently at 8.8 percent. Bunt reported Artesia’s current unemployment rate at 4.2 percent. … For the rest of the story, subscribe in print and on the web.