The substance abuse work group of the Ionia County Child, Family and Community Council in Michigan has developed a data-centered four-year plan to prevent substance use, the Grand Rapids Press reported on March 2.

County officials have become increasingly aware of the effects of substance use on problems handled by law enforcement, as well as on students in elementary and middle schools.

"We've been lacking a data-driven approach to address the needs of the community," said Mark Howe, workgroup chairman. "This plan will entail collecting data on what substance problems exist, by looking at cases processed through our courts and talking with school administrators, employers and social workers. With solid information, we can then develop programs to deal with the abuse."

In cooperation with the Mid-South Substance Abuse Commission, the county will use $200,000 in federal block grants, Medicaid funds and liquor tax proceeds to implement the plan over the next year.