There is anecdotal evidence that the Horseshoe Crab is in danger due to over harvesting but there is also strong opinion that there are abundant crabs and no danger. As a result there has been a public demand for better scientific information. The Friends have decided to provide that information so that appropriate regulations may be put in place to assure a sustainable population of horseshoe crabs into the future. To that end we have engaged the Boston University Marine Program at the Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole to conduct an extensive study of the crab. To quote from their proposal the purpose of this study is to:

"Provide an understanding of the present status of the crab population within the Bay. Determine its position as a predator in the Bay. Provide baseline data and develop a feasible monitoring plan that does not require heavy investments in personnel and resources, and carry out public outreach. Provide the information and means by which managers, policy makers, and public stakeholders can plan how to protect this important natural resource, and provide the basis for immediate and future regulatory and management decisions."

The study is well along and the initial results are impressive. For the first time ever, we now have data concerning the genders, sizes, ages and numbers of crabs in a whole estuarine habitat. As the months progress, that data will be studied to provide information on the dynamics of the population change and eventually, with further mathematical study, can provide regulators with accurate information on what levels of harvest can be allowed and still maintain a sustainable population of crabs.

In order to sustain such an effort approximately $55,000 must be raised for the two-year study. From their own funds the Friends were able to contribute $10,000 and have raised an additional $25,000 from grants, corporate gifts and other contributions. It is hoped that the significant emotional response to the horseshoe crab issue from the public will be translated into significant additional donations. Our old friend, the horseshoe crab, hopes you can help fund the study.