The Colorado State University Extension Office in La Plata County is accepting applications for the 2017 Colorado Master Gardener program until Dec. 31.

Students will receive training in tree care, vegetables, soils, native plants, water-wise gardening, pruning and much more. A variety of experts will teach the classes.

The 12-week series starts Jan. 26 and will be held at the La Plata County Fairgrounds Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost is $170 if you intend to volunteer or $530 for a certificate without volunteer time.

The training is equivalent to a four-credit course. For comparison, tuition for an in-state resident taking an undergraduate four-credit class is $1,729 at CSU, plus books and fees.

Volunteers are expected to complete 50 hours of volunteer time in the first year and 24 hours in subsequent years.

More information about the program and applications are available at www.laplataextension.org. Applications also can be picked up at the Extension Office, 2500 Main Ave.