As NCAR Faces Potential Dismantling, Rep. Neguse Calls on Coloradans to Make Voices Heard During NSF Public Comment Period
Lafayette, CO — On Friday, January 23, the National Science Foundation (NSF) sent out an outrageous “Dear Colleague Letter” purportedly asking the scientific community for input on how to dismantle the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR). In the letter, the NSF reiterated its intent to “restructure” the research institution and the weather-related capabilities it operates. The agency also asked for input on opening “ownership of the NSF NCAR Mesa Lab building [located in Boulder, Colorado] for private use.”
In response to the NSF’s letter, Congressman Joe Neguse intends to mobilize a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers to submit a formal response in the comment process.
“I urge all Coloradans to make their voices heard. The National Science Foundation is accepting public comments until March 13th,” said Congressman Neguse.
Neguse has forcefully condemned the White House’s plans to dismantle NCAR since reports first surfaced. Earlier this month, he succeeded in protecting funding for vital programs at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) within the Commerce, Justice, Science (CJS) appropriations legislation. However, Neguse voted against the CJS bill as a result of its omission of statutory language that he proposed and fought for — on a bipartisan basis — to prevent attacks on the cutting-edge research institution.
“Donald Trump’s blatant and unlawful retaliation against Colorado must end. His latest attempt would destroy the federally-connected agencies and institutes tasked with keeping our communities safe and hand off their life-saving work to the highest bidder. It’s reprehensible and we will continue to fight against it on all fronts. NCAR is a vital, cutting-edge research institution, and dismantling it would be reckless, dangerous, and place the United States at a serious competitive disadvantage,” said Congressman Neguse.
Individuals interested in submitting a document responding to NSF’s letter must do so by March 13, 2026. The NSF’s letter concerning NCAR is available HERE.
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