Community plus science equals action! Friends of the San Juans is inviting the public to participate in WSU Extension and Washington Sea Grant’s “Molt Search” program, a community science initiative aimed at addressing the threat posed by the invasive European green crab. Considered one of the world’s worst invasive species, the European green crab is endangering the health of Washington’s marine waters. With only a limited amount of shoreline being monitored by existing programs, there is a need for volunteers to help search for these invaders in order to protect local marine ecosystems. The Molt Search program involves monitoring shorelines for the old shells of green crabs, and volunteers can learn how to conduct surveys and report their findings using a mobile app.
Friends of the San Juans will be hosting Molt Search Workshops in June, providing opportunities for community members to get involved. Virtual training sessions will be held on June 18 via Zoom, and in-person training will take place on Orcas Island on June 19 and Lopez Island on June 26. Participants can register for the workshops on the Friends of the San Juans website. To learn more about the organization and the training workshops, individuals can contact Jess Newley, Friends’ Community Science and Education Director, via email at Jess@sanjuans.org.
This is a great opportunity for community members to contribute to a meaningful cause by getting involved in the fight against the invasive European green crab. By combining community efforts with scientific research, individuals can take action to protect Washington’s marine waters and preserve the health of local ecosystems. Join Friends of the San Juans in making a difference through the Molt Search program and help safeguard the natural beauty of the San Juan Islands.