Based in La Jolla, California and established in 2017, The Walter Munk Foundation for the Oceans was founded by Walter and Mary Munk to continue Walter's legacy of daring exploration and discovery in the field of oceanography.

Through the Foundation, Walter Munk established partnerships with leading researchers in Baja California, Mexico working to understand and protect the vulnerable M. munkiana species of ray — named after Walter. Walter and Mary also selected Lake Altaussee, Austria to begin comprehensive long-term studies with leading Austrian researchers about the lake’s history, geology, ecology and response to climate change.

Following Walter’s death in 2019 at the age of 101, the scientists and educators at WMFO continue Walter's legacy of education and outreach. Today the Walter Munk Foundation for the Ocean supports the enduring programs Walter and Mary started, with a renewed focus for developing engaging, exciting and impactful ocean science and education initiatives. Join us!