It is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sick and injured marine mammals such as seals, sea lions, dolphins, and whales. The center's mission extends to research, education, and conservation efforts to protect marine ecosystems. Visitors can learn about the lives of marine mammals, the challenges they encounter, and the advanced medical care provided by the center's veterinary team.The center's educational programs are designed to foster a deeper understanding of marine biology and conservation. School groups, families, and individual visitors can participate in guided tours, where knowledgeable docents share stories of the center's rescue efforts and the fascinating biology of marine mammals. Workshops and interactive sessions delve into topics such as marine animal anatomy, the impact of ocean pollution, and the importance of conservation practices. The Marine Mammal Center is also a hub for groundbreaking research. Its scientists collaborate with institutions worldwide to study marine mammal health, disease, and ecology. The center's findings contribute to global conservation efforts and inform policies protecting marine habitats. Volunteering at The Marine Mammal Center offers a unique opportunity for individuals to contribute to marine conservation efforts. Hands-on involvement fosters a strong sense of community and empowers individuals to take action in support of marine conservation. In addition to The Marine Mammal Center, Fort Cronkite hosts the Headlands Institute, an environmental education center dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world. The institute's programs cater to a broad audience, including students, educators, and the general public, emphasizing experiential learning and environmental stewardship. The Headlands Institute offers a variety of programs that immerse participants in the unique ecosystems of the Marin Headlands. Field trips, workshops, and residential programs provide hands-on learning experiences covering marine biology, ecology, geology, and conservation topics. These programs are designed to be engaging and informative, encouraging participants to explore and appreciate the natural world through direct interaction with the environment. Students, in particular, benefit from the institute's educational offerings. School groups can participate in tailored field trips that align with curriculum standards, providing practical applications for classroom learning. Through activities like tide pooling, bird watching, and plant identification, students gain a deeper understanding of ecological principles and the importance of conservation. The Headlands Institute also supports educators through professional development workshops that equip them with the knowledge and tools to teach environmental science effectively. These workshops cover various topics, from incorporating outdoor education into lesson plans to understanding the latest research in environmental science. By empowering educators, the institute helps to spread environmental awareness and stewardship to future generations. Public programs at the Headlands Institute are designed to engage the broader community in environmental education. Special events, such as bio blitzes and citizen science projects, invite community members to contribute to ongoing research and conservation efforts, fostering a sense of collective responsibility for protecting the environment. The combined offerings of Fort Cronkite, The Marine Mammal Center, and the Headlands Institute create a unique synergy that enhances the visitor experience. This synergy underscores the importance of integrating education, research, and recreation to foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the natural world. Visitors to Fort Cronkite can seamlessly transition from hiking scenic trails to exploring educational exhibits at The Marine Mammal Center and participating in hands-on workshops at the Headlands Institute.