Spring Stream Team 2026: Student Reflections

Propagating Bay Laurel from cuttings

Elena: “One genuine thing I’ve learned was being able to identify plants! I’m a girl who loves hiking, though I’m no pro at it. Though when I do walk by the trail I always notice beautiful plants that I couldn’t even name. I knew nothing about these plants. Whether they were native or not, or their different traits and how they’d adapt to the different environmental conditions.

After heading to YEP, skeptical and unsure, I learned it was better than anything I could imagine for an internship. Everyone was easygoing and fun to work with. I made friends here and had the capability to go outside more often. And now, I’m able to identify what plants are what, while also teaching my family members too. So far, my favorite is the western sword fern! It’s probably my favorite to see while walking trails. Something about its visuals are so beautiful!”

Birding at Fruitvale Bridge Park

Kamela: “In Spring Stream Team I have experienced a lot of nature, and I’m very happy about that. I love everything we have done so far. It is very enjoyable and fun, and I’m kinda sad that it’s ending soon because I feel like the time went by so fast and I really love everyone here. Overall this was the best job I’ve experienced.”

Removing French broom at Wood Park

Jay’dee: “Something I gained from Spring Stream Team was respecting our environment more. Like after I’m done eating or drinking something, I won’t drop it on the floor no matter how small it is. Another thing I learned is the looks of a few native plants. 

An experience I had was going through the woods, it was very fun, it’s something I’ve never really done. I also learned more about rainbow trout and their breeding/giving birth process and where they go overall. I enjoy what I’m doing.”