BOONE—Economic growth continued in western North Carolina in August, however labor figures continue to be dismal.

According to the Western North Carolina Economic Index, economic activity increased by 0.4 points in August, the fourth monthly increase in a row.

The index, which tracks the level of economic activity in 25 western North Carolina counties, is compiled by the Center for Economic Research and Policy Analysis (CEPA) at Appalachian State University.

“This is the strongest four-month period since before the recession,” said CERPA director Dr. Todd L. Cherry, who also is a professor of economics at Appalachian.

“But I remain cautious because there are too many pressing issues outside the region that can affect us,” he said. “We’ve seen some positive labor market news at the national ...