The Gopher Tortoise Council was formed in 1978 by a group of southeastern biologists and other citizens concerned with the decline of the gopher tortoise. The goals of the Council are: (1) to offer professional advice for management, conservation, and protection of gopher tortoises; (2) to encourage the study of the life history, ecology, behavior, physiology, and management of gopher tortoises and other upland species; (3) to conduct active public information and conservation education programs; (4) to seek effective protection of the gopher tortoise and other upland species throughout the southeastern United States. 

The Gopher Tortoise Council (GTC) is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, supportive, welcoming, and professional environment. All GTC meeting, event, and social media participants are expected to adhere to the GTC Code of Conduct.