This information reflects the 2026 program. Have more questions after reading these FAQs? Contact Becca Kedenburg at becca.kedenburg@mtsgreenway.org.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
Burien Green Teens is well-suited for teens who are interested in environmental topics and who like to work outside. Interns must be current Highline Public Schools high school students (including graduating seniors) and at least 16 years old by the start of the program. Priority is given to teens who live in Burien.
LOCATIONS
On most days, we will be at Salmon Creek Ravine in Burien. We’ll meet at an H Line bus stop along Ambaum Blvd SW and walk together about 10 minutes down into the park. This route includes paved sidewalks and dirt trails; one section of the trail is steep. On three days, we’ll be at the Burien Community Center. On one day, we will start at the Shark Garden and bus to the White Center Food Bank.
Read more about Salmon Creek Ravine and this internship by reading our blog post or the City of Burien’s park profile.
SCHEDULE
Orientation: August 11.
Internship: August 17-28, 2026. Monday-Friday from 9am-2pm.
What does a typical day look like?
In the morning, the interns walk together into Salmon Creek Ravine. We start each day with a check-in circle. Interns learn about Pacific Northwest plants and practice using tools like loppers and clippers to do ecological restoration. They discuss environmental and social justice as it relates to public green spaces. They are introduced to a wide breadth of outdoor activities that may include hiking, camping, art, forest bathing, and other topics that may peak their interest. We will have a lunch and bathroom break from about 11:30am-12pm.
What kinds of careers do interns learn about?
A wide range of environmental careers, including parks planner, environmental educator, communications, restoration technician, and food justice advocate.
How much restoration work do interns do?
We will spend four half-days doing restoration work. This looks like using shovels and loppers to remove introduced weeds like blackberry and ivy.
INTERNSHIP BENEFITS
- Stipend of $1,200. (Assistant Leaders earn $1,500).
- Gear Kit that includes a backpack, water bottle, Carhartt work pants, REI hiking boots and socks, t-shirt, hat, a first aid kit, work gloves, and more.
- Lunch is provided with lunch every day. We do our best to accommodate interns’ dietary restrictions.
Stipends will be a paper check mailed to participants after the internship ends. To receive the full stipend, interns who have a Social Security Number (SSN) or Tax Identification Number (TIN) will need to fill out a W9. Students who do not have an SSN or TIn are still able to participate and receive the stipend.
INTERNSHIP LEADERSHIP
The primary staff leads of Burien Green Teens are educators from Dirt Corps and the Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust.
The Assistant Leaders are returning interns who take on more of a leadership role. For example, they lead the restoration project days and a few other activities. Assistant Leaders earn a stipend of $1,500 and have a bigger time commitment (approx. 65 hours that includes planning sessions with internship staff leading up to the internship).
TRANSPORTATION
Interns must get themselves to the meeting locations. Luckily, youth who are 18 years or younger ride free. (Learn more!). ORCA cards are accepted on all services provided by Community Transit, Everett Transit, King County Metro, Kitsap Transit, Pierce Transit, Sound Transit, and Washington State Ferries, as well as on Monorail and Seattle Streetcar.
On one day, we will meet at the Shark Garden and then take the bus together to the White Center Food Bank. Our day will conclude at the Food Bank.
WHAT TO BRING / WEAR
Burien Green Teens happens almost entirely outdoors, so it’s important that interns wear or bring what they need to stay comfortable, hydrated, and energized. All safety equipment is provided. The Gear Kits that are provided (see Benefits above) do not include sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks.
APPLICATION PROCESS
How do I apply? (2026 timeline):
May 25 – June 25: Applications are open at tinyurl.com/buriengreenteens
May 27: Info Session at the Burien Community Center (registration has closed)
June 9: virtual Info Session on Zoom (registration has closed)
June 29 – July 10: Interviews on Zoom
Mid-July: All applicants will receive a decision by email
What would make my application stand out?
Be authentic! Share your passions. Elaborate on your answers – write at least a couple sentences per question.
What happens after I apply?
You will get an email from internship staff by late June regarding if you are selected for an interview. Interviews will be conducted virtually between June 29 – July 10. Final decisions will be made by mid-July; selected candidates will be notified by email.