The WSU Extension and Washington Sea Grant’s “Molt Search” program is a community science initiative aimed at addressing concerns about the invasive European green crab. This species is considered one of the worst invasive species globally and poses a threat to the health of Washington’s marine waters. Due to the limitations in monitoring shoreline habitat, assistance is needed to search for these invaders and protect the local marine environment.
Friends of the San Juans is inviting the public to participate in this program by attending training sessions hosted by Friends in June. Virtual training via Zoom will be held on Tuesday, June 18 from 4 to 5 p.m., with registration available at https://sanjuans.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/sanjuans/eventRegistration.jsp?event=1842 . In-person training sessions will also be held on Orcas Island on Wednesday, June 19 from 5 to 6:30 p.m., and Lopez Island on Wednesday, June 26 from 5 to 6:30 p.m.. Registration links for these in-person training sessions can be found on Friends of the San Juans website.
During the training sessions, individuals will learn about how to monitor shorelines for old shells of green crabs and report their findings through a mobile app developed specifically for this purpose. By participating in this program, individuals can help protect their local marine environment and contribute to ongoing efforts to address the threat posed by this invasive species
