Rep. Simpson Advances World Center for Birds of Prey Funding

WASHINGTON-Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $8,500,000 in funding for the Global Conservation Education and Condor Recovery Center Project in Boise, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

"The Peregrine Fund and Boise State University's collaborative efforts in raptor conservation, science, and species recovery will position Idaho as a continued leader in this field," said Rep. Simpson. "As a longtime supporter of Boise State University, The Peregrine Fund, and the critical work that they both do, I am proud to advance funding for the proposed recovery center. The late Dirk Kempthorne, one of Idaho's most effective public servants and a dear friend of mine, championed species recovery efforts and strongly supported this project."

"We are grateful to Congressman Simpson for securing this vital funding, which will help protect and preserve Idaho's birds of prey - magnificent animals that are deeply woven into our state's cultural identity and essential to the health of our ecosystems. This investment will advance critical scientific research and bring meaningful educational outreach to communities across Idaho, ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate the irreplaceable role these birds play in our natural world," said Boise State University Vice President of Research and Economic Development Dr. Nancy Glenn.

"Congressman Simpson has long recognized that The Peregrine Fund's approach - rigorous science, durable partnerships, and measurable results - is exactly how endangered species get recovered. This investment doesn't just support the condor; it establishes Idaho as a global center for collaborative conservation excellence and ensures the next generation of scientists carries that model to ecosystems around the world," said Chris Parish, President & CEO, The Peregrine Fund.

This funding will be used to enhance the partnership of Boise State University and the Peregrine Fund organization by constructing and renovating certain facilities and infrastructure at the World Center for Birds of Prey outside of Boise, Idaho.

Despite claims that CPF projects are "wasteful earmarks," Community Project Funding gives Members of Congress like Congressman Simpson the opportunity to bring Idaho tax dollars back home for Idaho priorities. These projects fill a clear and present need in communities across Idaho and enjoy broad community support. The federal dollars designated for CPF projects exist within existing budget limits. Rather than that money going to fund projects in different states, CPF projects give Idahoans a critical voice in determining where budgeted funding goes.

As Idaho's only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho's priorities and ensure Idahoans' hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.

The Global Conservation Education and Condor Recovery Center Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.