MSU Extension's Citizen Planner, a six-part program designed to teach interested participants about facing the challenges of a growing community, begins March 19.

The program will focus on the basics of planning, reviews of site plans, legalities, best practices and running productive meetings.

The program will be localized for residents of Ingham and Eaton counties and includes sessions about water quality, conflict management, farmland preservation and open space.

Citizen Planner graduates will receive a certificate after finishing the course and are expected to use the information they learned by performing at least 30 hours of community service.

The cost of the program is $210 and will include educational materials, an expandable notebook and refreshments. Registration is still open and information is available from the Ingham County Extension Office at (517)676-7207.