(AP) — A monthly economic index for nine Midwestern and Plains states has risen slightly, suggesting economic growth over the next three to six months.

A report issued late Monday says the overall Mid-America Business Conditions Index inched up to 58.2 in March from 57.4 in February.

Looking six months ahead, the business confidence portion of the overall index declined to a still strong 59.0 from 59.7 in February.

The survey results from supply managers are compiled into a collection of indexes ranging from zero to 100. Survey organizers say any score above 50 suggests growth, while a score below that suggests decline.

The survey covers Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Dakota.