Enjoy an outdoor adventure at the Phillips Wharf Environmental Center as you explore Blue Crabs and the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem, while enjoying fresh steamed crabs like a local.

Discover the fascinating world of the Chesapeake Bay’s most iconic resident—the blue crab. Join marine scientist Dr. Kristen Lycett at the Phillips Wharf Environmental Center in Easton for an engaging exploration of the Chesapeake Bay’s ecosystem and the remarkable life cycle of the blue crab’s remarkable journey from tiny larva to adult crab.

Learn how blue crabs shape the Bay’s ecology, support local communities, and symbolize life on the Eastern Shore. There will be plenty of time for questions, discussion, and sharing experiences. As a special hands-on experience, participants will also learn the art of opening and eating Maryland blue crabs. Whether you’re a lifelong crab lover or simply curious about the Bay, this promises to be an informative and enjoyable morning.

What to expect: 

In this interactive presentation, you can expect to gain insights into: 

• How to pick and eat blue crabs like a local!
• How to identify major anatomical features of blue crabs and (IMPORTANT!) how to properly hold a LIVE crab
• Learn about the complex life history of blue crabs and the issues their population faces in the Chesapeake Bay.

The Phillips Wharf Environmental Center is now at Easton Point Park in Easton, Maryland. The campus is in a waterfront park along the Tred Avon River and includes an aquarium, classroom space, and lots of outdoor space for educational activities and events. It is just off the Easton Bypass and the Rails to Trails path.

Feedback from Kristen’s past Blue Crab course:

“Excellent, informative, relaxed presentation and location with opportunity for tasting an added bonus!”

“Dr Kristin had a command of the material, presented it well, and made the session very enjoyable.  This is one of the best sessions I have attended.  And getting tips on pickin’ crabs was great.”

“Dr. Kristen Lycett provided an engaging discussion about many aspects of the life of Blue Crabs and fielded numerous questions from the attendees. And of course it was fun getting a chance to eat some crabs.”

Wednesday | July 22 | 10:30 – noon | IN PERSON (at Phillips Wharf Environmental Center’s waterfront campus at Easton Point Park in Easton) | $40