OLYMPIA — Marijuana prices have dropped dramatically since stores opened last summer.

The Seattle Times reports that the average gram of marijuana in the state’s system sells for about $12. That’s down from a $30 average last year when prices peaked.

The data from the state Liquor Control Board doesn’t consider the quality of the bud or the effect of bulk pricing. But it shows a downward trend since the state launched its regulated marijuana market.

Board spokesman Brian Smith says the agency was pleased with the trend. He says they were charged with creating a system competitive with the gray and illicit markets. They were able to get there in a matter of months.

When stores opened, retailers faced a shortage of pot. Within months, the market took a U-turn and suppliers began to worry about a glut of pot on the market.