The National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder, Colorado, is facing threats of dismantling, sparking outrage among scientists and officials alike. This news comes amid escalating tensions between former President Donald Trump and Colorado Governor Jared Polis.
Just hours before the dismantling announcement, Trump canceled $109 million in federal grants aimed at environmental and safety initiatives in Colorado. The move to break up NCAR seems to be linked to Trump’s ongoing feud with Polis, who has been critical of Trump’s actions surrounding election integrity issues.
Experts warn that shutting down NCAR, a crucial institution for climate and weather research, would be detrimental not only to scientific progress but also to safety. “This would be a significant setback for the entire climate science community,” said Kevin Trenberth, a distinguished scholar associated with NCAR.
Founded in 1960, NCAR serves as a central hub for climate science, providing advanced data and technology crucial for research across North America. For instance, NCAR helps predict severe weather, improving the efficiency of operations for military forecasting and even assisting in hurricane research with its specialized equipment.
Climate scientist Katharine Hayhoe called NCAR “our global mothership,” emphasizing its vital role in climate research worldwide. Antonio Busalacchi, president of the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR), echoed this sentiment, labeling NCAR an “international treasure.” It employs around 830 people and contributes significantly to the local economy.
NCAR received $123 million in funding from the National Science Foundation in the last fiscal year, crucial for maintaining its broad array of research capabilities. This financial support illustrates the center’s importance to U.S. interests in science and safety, particularly in light of recent extreme weather events.
Daniel Swain, a researcher at the University of California, highlighted the interconnection between weather and climate studies. “You can’t simply separate the two; they are intertwined,” he explained. He also pointed out that the research and forecasts provided by NCAR directly contribute to strategies that mitigate wildfire risks in Colorado, especially during drought conditions.
The implications of dismantling NCAR extend beyond science. Governor Polis stated that losing NCAR would jeopardize public safety and diminish the capacity for disaster preparedness. “The work done here saves lives and protects property,” he asserted.
Local political reactions have been swift. Representative Joe Neguse labeled the proposed dismantling a “dangerous and retaliatory action” by the Trump administration. He vowed to explore every legal avenue to protect NCAR.
The conversation around NCAR’s future highlights growing concerns over the politicization of science. As societal needs for accurate climate data increase, dismantling such vital institutions may hinder progress and safety measures in an already at-risk environment.
For those seeking reliable climate data, NCAR remains a linchpin. Its loss would be felt across scientific communities and the general public alike, emphasizing the need for political leaders to prioritize science and research in policy-making. The stakes couldn’t be higher as the world grapples with escalating climate challenges.
