OMAHA, Neb. — A monthly business survey suggests only modest economic growth is likely in nine Midwestern and Plains states this spring because the agriculture and energy sectors are slowing.

The report released Monday says the overall economic index for the region improved slightly to 54.8 in January from December’s 54.4.

Creighton University economist Ernie Goss, who oversees the survey, says growth for companies outside of energy and agriculture should offset the declines in those sectors.