PIERRE, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) The regional economy continues to show modest growth for a second consecutive month, according to Creighton University’s Rural Mainstreet Index. The index surveys small-town bankers across the region. Economist Ernie Goss says the biggest challenge remains weak commodity prices, which are driving up demand for agricultural loans. In fact, bank loans have reached a record high across the region. South Dakota’s reading dipped slightly compared to last month but still remains in positive territory. For more Government stories from MitchellNow.com, Click Here.