THE TORTOISE RESERVE, INC. is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) corporation dedicated to the international conservation of tortoises and freshwater turtles.

Our goal is to help with the recovery of stressed and endangered populations through enhanced public awareness, the development of regional conservation strategies, support of successful existing programs, and conservation-oriented research. Of primary interest are local programs which address the interrelated roles of chelonians within specific biotic communities and involvement of the private sector in conservation..

The Tortoise Reserve is attempting to achieve this goal through non-traditional fund raising efforts, grants and contracts, and by developing cooperative programs with existing conservation organizations and natural resource agencies. We respect and appreciate the many existing programs which also address chelonian conservation efforts and are committed to avoiding duplication of efforts or competition with these programs. When possible we make direct, non-stipulated contributions to these programs.

The Reserve is composed of two officers and a board of directors. We are not membership-based. All efforts are voluntary and we have no salaried staff. We prefer this structure because it allows us to devote all funds to our goals. Information resulting from our activities is published through established existing outlets.

In addition to our educational and field conservation efforts we have an annual awards program for the recognition of innovative non-governmental chelonian education/conservation work, and a separate research/scholarship program. We also serve as an umbrella organization in order to administrate grants for projects obtained by researchers with proven track records. The Tortoise Reserve is interested in both regional and international programs. We periodically sponsor or co-sponsor events and activities which we believe to be beneficial to the long term interest of tortoises and freshwater turtles.

"When the Hare awoke from his nap, he saw the Tortoise just near the winning post. Plodding wins the race." Aesop ca. 550 BC

"We have faults which we have hardly used yet." Pogo (Walt Kelly) 1955.