Mower County unemployment numbers rose to 5.7 percent in July, representing a small but steady increase since April, 2010.

While the county did experience the slight rise in unemployment numbers, its rate is still well below the state average of 6.8 percent.

Numbers indicate that in July, 1,195 residents in the county were considered unemployed.

Compared to one year ago, the county’s numbers are down significantly. Last year in July numbers climbed to 6.4 percent. In June, numbers hit 7.0.

Last month, Development Corporation of Austin development director John Garry said the slight increase in unemployment numbers from May to June could be due, in part, to the census workers who were laid off in June. Throughout the country, 200,000 census workers were let go.

Gary also said last month that unemployment rates only reflect those residents who are actively looking for work, which could mean increased numbers reflect those in the area who, because of recent national optimism in the economy, are now looking for employment.