The Trump administration has announced its intention to dismantle the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder, Colorado, which has raised concerns across the scientific community. In a statement obtained by USA TODAY, Russ Vought, director of the Office of Management and Budget, cited the institution as "one of the largest sources of climate alarmism in the country." Plans are to conduct a review and relocate "vital activities such as weather research" to other entities or locations.
A social media post detailing the decision has sparked a robust reaction from officials and lawmakers. The post indicates a "comprehensive review" is underway, following a pattern of the administration pushing back against what it calls "green new scam research activities." Positioned in the scientific epicenter of Boulder, NCAR has been fundamental to efforts in atmospheric and climate science. However, officials at NCAR informed 9NEWS that they have not been notified about plans to break up the center.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed concern about the implications of such a move, remarking on the potential risks to public safety and scientific advancement. "Climate change is real, but the work of NCAR goes far beyond climate science," Polis stated, as per 9NEWS, underscoring the center's role in delivering data crucial for addressing severe weather events and national security challenges.
The implications for NCAR's future are significant, with about 830 employees potentially impacted, as reported by USA TODAY. The center, which received approximately $123 million from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for the 2025 fiscal year, according to Science magazine, serves as a critical resource for more than 130 colleges and universities. These institutions form the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research, focusing on Earth system science research and education.
Opposition to the administration's decision stretches beyond Colorado, with U.S. Rep. Joe Neguse, who represents Boulder, calling the move "a deeply dangerous & blatantly retaliatory action" in a post cited by The Washington Post. Neguse vowed to contest the directive using every legal avenue available.
