Boston Gets High. A Lot.

When you think of liberal marijuana culture in the United States, what comes to mind? San Francisco and the rest of Northern California, undoubtedly. Maybe Seattle, Portland (Oregon), or in our region, hippy Vermont.

But no.

You may be surprised to learn that, according to a new study, our fine city (metro area, actually) has the highest rate of youth and adult marijuana use in the country. While nationally 5 percent of people smoke pot, here in Boston, 12 percent of us get high (of course Bostonist doesn't...we mean the "royal we"). In fact, 5 of the 15 areas with the highest rates of use nationwide are right here in Massachusetts. Apparently the reason we hold this illustrious title is because of the unusually high number of students in our area -- 18 to 25 is the age at which pot use tends to peak.

But before you wanna-be hippies run out and buy new Birkenstocks or weave flowers though your hair, note that the study was conducted by the Feds (though the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) and, according to Michael Botticelli from the state Department of Public Health:

"This survey allows us to target our resources and look at areas of the Commonwealth with a concentrated effort."

Bostonist actually just spilled bong water on our pants, so we can't take time to actually figure out what that statement means. But suffice it to say, sounds like a hint at stronger enforcement. We might as well enjoy our title while we still can.