Inspired by a vision of a healthy ocean for marine mammals and humans alike, The Marine Mammal Center advances ocean health through marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, research, and education.
Join the Mission to Protect Monterey’s Marine Life! Be a hero for seals, sea lions, and other wildlife — support The Marine Mammal Center’s life-saving rescue and rehabilitation efforts!
The ocean is in trouble. From marine pollution to climate change impacts, the frequency and severity of threats to our ocean continue to escalate, endangering both marine life and human health. With 50 years of expertise in marine mammal care and ocean health research, The Marine Mammal Center – the world’s largest marine mammal hospital – is stepping up to combat these substantial challenges. Each year, our staff and community volunteers rescue 300 – 600 marine mammals from the Monterey coastline, protecting endangered species and biodiversity and advancing ocean health through our education, outreach, and research.
Join us in protecting Monterey’s marine life and our shared ocean, on which all life depends!
The Marine Mammal Center’s work benefits the ecosystem, economy, and communities of Monterey County. Each year, we rescue 300 - 600 sick or injured marine mammals in this area and triage them at our Monterey facility. Our expert staff and 125 highly trained local volunteers rescue and stabilize patients (including endangered species) before transporting them to our hospital in Sausalito for long-term care. This facility also provides surge capacity during increasingly frequent and more severe stranding events like disease outbreaks, and it is the hub for our large whale disentanglement response activities.
A healthier ecosystem in turn benefits Monterey’s human population. Local tourism – much of which depends on a healthy marine environment – generates billions of dollars and supports tens of thousands of jobs each year. The Center’s work in Monterey expands educational and civic opportunities, contributes to a healthy environment and local economy, and ensures our shared future.
Every week I get to help rescue and care for sick and injured marine mammals. The animals get a second chance at life in the wild and we get to learn from them how to take better care of our oceans. We couldn't do any of it without your [our community's] help. Thank you so much.
- Robert Levit, Castroville
