The U.S. Census Bureau this week released July 1, 2009, population estimates for each of the nation’s counties and metropolitan and micropolitan statistical areas.

The estimates are based on 2000 Census data and updated by using administrative records to estimate components of population change — namely births, deaths, and domestic and international migration. Provided are annual county and metro area estimates for the 2000 to 2009 period, as well as rankings by population size in 2009 and by numeric and percent change from 2000 to 2009 and 2008 to 2009.

The new estimates are not 2010 Census population counts. They are, however, the last estimates to use 2000 Census results as a base.

“These are the last population estimates for counties and metro areas before the release of 2010 Census numbers for smaller areas in April 2011,” Census Bureau Director Robert Groves said. “In December, we will release the official population counts for the nation and states.”

The 2010 Census population totals will be used to apportion seats in the U.S. House of Representatives. By April 1, 2011, the Census Bureau must release data for counties, cities and other small geographic areas so that states can proceed with redistricting.

“Census numbers govern the distribution of more than $400 billion in federal funds each year and serve as the baseline for future post-census population estimates,” Groves said. “It is critical that every U.S. household complete and mail back their questionnaire so that our counts are as accurate as possible.”

The numbers released show that Brown County has remained fairly steady in population over the last year overall.  The estimated population for Brown County as of July 2008 was 38,106 and showed 38,088 in 2009.  This was less than a half percent change in population.   Looking back, Brown County has increased population by 1.1% since the 2000 Census which showed a population total of 37,674 at the time.