Reports say nearly 30 percent of U.S. high school seniors have used marijuana in the past year, and about 17 percent of those using before age 18 become addicted.

The Berrien County Health Department and Voice. Change. Hope. Alliance are collaborating to educate the community about the negative effects of underage marijuana usage.

With brains still developing during teenage years, marijuana can negatively impact a student’s school performance as well as cause increased absences and a greater likelihood of dropping out.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration says there is three times the amount of THC in today’s marijuana compared to 25 years ago.

They say IQ loss, depression, anxiety, suicide planning and psychotic episodes can all be linked to the substance.