SIDNEY — The Shelby County Master Gardeners have extended the deadline for registration in its 2016 training program.

The new deadline is Jan. 22. The training is tentatively scheduled for nine consecutive Thursdays, March 3 through May 5, at the Shelby County Agricultural Service Center, 810 Fair Road. Sessions will start at 9 a.m. and end at 4 p.m. Training is open to interested residents of Shelby and surrounding counties.

Cost of the training is $150, with a $50 refundable deposit due upon return of an application to participate. The fee covers presenters, a comprehensive training manual, handouts, and light snacks. OSU Extension (OSUE) also requires a law enforcement background check. The training will be provided by some of OSUE’s experts as well as some local Master Gardener volunteers. Upon completion of the training sessions, the trainees will become Master Gardener interns and will be expected to provide 50 hours of volunteer service during the coming year.

The Ohio State University Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program provides intensive training in horticulture to interested Ohio residents who then volunteer their time assisting with educational programs and activities for Ohio residents through their local Ohio State University Extension county offices.

For information or to obtain a registration packet, visit the Extension Office, call 498-7239, or email [email protected]. Information is also available at http://shelby.osu.edu.