The invasive European Green Crab (EGC) is considered one of the most invasive species in the marine environment. It has little predators in the coastal waters that surround Vancouver Island, it causes a number of issues such as, aggressively hunting and eating, destroying important eelgrass habitat, and outcompetes native species.

The MHSS (directed by ʕaḥuusʔatḥ Ḥaw̓iiḥ, Hereditary Chiefs of Ahousaht First Nation) has partnered with Coastal Restoration Society to capture, remove and dispose of the ever spreading EGC. Coastal Restoration Society has also partnered with the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, the T’Sou-Ke First Nation and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada through funding from the British Columbia Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund.

EGC can be identified by the five spines behind the eye on each side of the shell. It’s important to note that EGC are not always green, and can range from dark brown to yellow, and orange. If spotted, report right away and note the exact GPS location than contact MHSS  if you are in ʕaḥuusʔatḥ haḥuułii, or if you are in other Nations, contact local First Nations and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada.