Raptor Research Center to host 2026 symposium

The Raptor Research Center at Boise State University, in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management, the Idaho Army National Guard, and the Birds of Prey National Conservation Area (NCA) Partnership, will host the 6th installation of the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area Symposium at the Boise State Student Union Building on Nov. 17 and 18, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This is the 10-year anniversary of this biennial event.

What is the National Conservation Area, or NCA?

Located about 35 miles from Boise, the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area encompasses 485,000 acres of high-desert landscape, and is home to North America's highest density of nesting raptors.

What is the purpose of the NCA Symposium?

The NCA Symposium showcases research, conservation-based projects, and partnerships associated with the NCA. Resource professionals, students, and citizen scientists will present short (15 minutes with five minutes for questions) verbal project summaries (Nov. 17 and 18) and lunchtime poster presentations (Nov. 17) to expand on the historic work done in the NCA, stimulate new questions and partnerships, and identify data gaps that need to be addressed in the future.

Topics may include, but are not limited to soils, vegetation, restoration, wildlife, raptors, recreation, human dimensions of natural and cultural resources, social sciences, climate change, and resource management.

Additionally, the center plans to host breakout sessions during the second day's afternoon and a professional panel geared toward students planning to enter the workforce and breakout sessions.

Who is the NCA symposium for?

This event aims to educate and facilitate interactions with university students, local agencies, NGOs, private corporations, and the public. The target audience includes students, university faculty, current and future conservation professionals, and citizen scientists. Students from Boise State and other colleges and universities are especially encouraged to present and attend.

How can I attend the NCA symposium?

Those interested in presenting a verbal project summary or a poster need to follow presenter instructions and register by Oct. 30. All other attendees (not presenting), please register for the NCA Symposium by Nov. 10, 2026.

The event is free thanks to our sponsors and we welcome walk-ins, but registering in advance is vital for planning and is required for the lunch on November 17.

For those who register in advance, more information is forthcoming regarding discounted parking, refreshments, and the schedule.

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