New England-based nonprofit Greencrab.org is behind Green Crab Week, which runs from June 20-29 and includes seafood pop-ups and other events aimed at combatting the highly invasive green crab. The initiative brings together 75+ restaurants, fish markets and organizations across the region, including in Maine.

Several Portland restaurants – including Chaval, Mr. Tuna, Regards, Solo Italiano, The Honey Paw, and Twelve – will feature green crab dishes on their menus. According to Greencrab.org founder Mary Parks, the crabs are sourced from TideMinded, a South Portland-based seasonal seafood retailer. Parks added that many chefs believe that green crabs are the most flavorful crabs for stocks and sauces.

Restaurants in Biddeford, Brunswick and Rockland, as well as Peekytoe Provisions fish market in Bar Harbor, are also participating in Green Crab Week. The Rockport Library will host a one-hour talk on Turning the Tables on Green Crabs with Maine Green Crabs on June 25 at 6 p.m. Fisherman John Painter, of Maine Green Crabs, will discuss green crabs and how the New England fishing industry is addressing the challenges of climate change.

On June 26, Mr. Tuna will collaborate with Connecticut-based restaurant The Shipwright’s Daughter to host a Green Crab Dinner on a sunset cruise on the Sabino River in Mystic, Connecticut. The multi-course tasting menu will highlight the invasive green crab; a portion proceeds will go toward fighting the invasive species.