Teens Find Summer Jobs at Local Parks

Dozens of students improve trails, creeks

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By Kate McPherson
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Story Created: Jun 14, 2012 at 1:34 PM AKDT

Story Updated: Jun 14, 2012 at 2:32 PM AKDT

ANCHORAGE – Local teenagers are developing their green thumbs this summer, working to build trails and restore creek banks around town while simultaneously learning about conservation.

“It’s better than sitting inside playing video games all day,” said West Anchorage High School student Tracy Butler, one of 25 team members working at Chester Creek near University Lake Wednesday.

The job description includes transferring soil, planting trees and moving native plants from the forest to the creek banks. It’s just one of dozens of nature restoration and building projects scheduled for completion during the Anchorage Parks Foundation program, where 16 to 19 year olds earn a paycheck while learning skills like leadership and teamwork.

"I like the hard work, but I like how the hard work is doing projects that can help people out,” said South Anchorage High School graduate Grace Mitton. “I can look back every summer, and I can go back and see the different projects that I've done and see how they've helped Anchorage.”

Participants said the job was the perfect opportunity to give back to their community while learning more about the natural world around them.
 

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