The Drake University Center for Professional Studies is offering a new program to teach local leaders how to develop and maintain effective community-based food systems.

The program is five weekend sessions spaced between Dec. 9 and Feb. 24. Attendees are encouraged to enroll for the entire program but have the option to attend selected weekend sessions.

The registration fee for a single weekend is $245; the fee for the entire course is $975. Sessions will be held on Fridays from 6 to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from  9 to 4 p.m. on the weekends of Dec. 9, Jan. 13, Jan. 27, Feb. 10 and Feb. 24 in Aliber Hall at Drake University, 2847 University Ave.