Friends of the San Juans is reaching out to the public to help with the WSU Extension and Washington Sea Grant’s “Molt Search” program. This initiative aims to address concerns about the invasive European green crab, which is considered one of the world’s worst invasive species and poses a threat to the health of Washington’s marine waters. Monitoring shoreline habitat is a challenge due to the limited resources of Washington Sea Grant’s Crab Team and the WDFW-led coalition, so community involvement is crucial to protect local marine waters. By participating in the Molt Search program, individuals can assist in monitoring shorelines for the old shells of green crabs and report their findings using a mobile app.
Friends of the San Juans is hosting Molt Search Workshops in June to provide training for interested participants. There are several opportunities to engage, including virtual training via Zoom on Tuesday, June 18 from 4 to 5 p.m. Those interested can register at https://sanjuans.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/sanjuans/eventRegistration.jsp?event=1842.
In-person training sessions will be held on Orcas Island on Wednesday, June 19 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Eastsound Waterfront Park, and on Lopez Island on Wednesday, June 26 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Odlin County Park. Registration links can be found at the provided websites. To learn more about Friends of the San Juans, visit sanjuanas.org. For additional information about the upcoming training workshops, contact Jess Newley, Friends’ Community Science and Education Director, at Jess@sanjuans.org.