Field experience is the key component for those interested in careers in the biological sciences.  StreamTeam interns gain these valuable skills in inquiry-based fieldwork and salmon ecology monitoring and research that allows them to be competitive and desirable in the job market. Typically, 2-6 interns are chosen annually for the program.

Data collected as part of the StreamTeam fieldwork relates to current projects within our organization as well as state, local agencies, tribes and consulting firms.  Field experience and data collection has also carried over to support students in research projects and other internships.

There have been over 100 StreamTeam members since the program began in 1998.  Since that time, many StreamTeam members have gone on to work professionally in the natural resource field.

The primary role of a Stream Team intern consists of creating and sustaining monitoring protocols on the current and newly restored river and estuary systems and performing habitat surveys on selected hood canal watersheds. Interns will survey existing Hood Canal river and estuary systems and collect data on important habitat indicators within these systems, such as fish, vegetation, birds, wildlife, water quality, and wood material.

Stream Team interns will have the opportunity throughout the summer to support a variety of other HCSEG  projects. These projects may include handling and counting returning adult salmon during late summer, conducting invasive and native plant surveys, treating invasive weed and assisting with water quality sampling.

HCSEG is also involved in communicating the story of how salmon connects with the landscape. Communication efforts include a variety of educational and outreach programs for children and adults. Stream Team interns will have the opportunity to mentor youth during our summer programs and engage the community at outreach events throughout the region.

• The intern program is available to graduating Hood Canal region high school seniors who are planning to attend a two or four-year college or university. Current college undergraduates are also eligible to apply who have graduated from a Hood Canal region high school. All applicants must have plans for a career in the field of environmental science, fisheries,   biology, ecology, or other related fields.
• Students must be at least 17 years old, have a current driver’s license, and have a reliable means of transportation.
• The StreamTeam internship consists of a 400-hour commitment that begins in June and will be completed in August or September (before the start of fall term). This is a full-time position, Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
• The program allows for some schedule flexibility, however interns are required to work on occasional weekends. The  program relies on a dedicated time commitment from each of the StreamTeam members to meet the 400-h
• Each StreamTeam intern will earn $13.50/hour.
• On completion of the summer internship commitment, a $1,500.00 scholarship is awarded and paid directly to the college/university of their choice.
• First Aid/CPR training will be provided to all interns.
• All field training will be provided.

• Must be a High school seniors with an acceptance letter to a two/four year college/university or current college students from a two or four year college or university.
• The preferred area of study for all applicants should include environmental science, fisheries, biology, ecology, hydrology, environmental engineering, botany or related fields.
• Participation in a community or personal project that enhances, protects or restores the natural environment.
• A one-page essay on the relationship of your planned major/career to your interest in wild salmon, ecology or related fields.
• Academic performance will be considered in the context of demonstrated desire for fieldwork and future goals related to the natural resource profession.