When the House of Representatives passed the Omnibus Public Lands Management Act of 2009, Congressman Mike Simpson’s bill to rename the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area was included. Also in the bill is Simpson’s legislation that transfers four federally-owned parcels of land in the Auger Falls area for the creation of a community park and recreation area. 

Once the bill is signed by the President, the Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area, will be renamed to the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area.

“Morley Nelson was a devoted advocate for the protection of the nation's birds of prey,” said Simpson. “I am proud to be part of honoring his life and work in such a manner.”

Simpson has also been working with the City of Twin Falls for several years to transfer four federally-owned parcels of land in the Auger Falls area that will create a community park and recreation area for residents.

“I believe strongly in the City’s vision to make the Auger Falls area accessible to the public and this bill will help the City accomplish that goal,” said Simpson. “The Auger Falls area is a spectacular undeveloped landscape deep in the Snake River Canyon but off-limits to most of the public. By consolidating ownership of the land, we can help facilitate both the preservation and enjoyment of this area for current and future generations. I greatly appreciate the cooperation of Mayor Clow and City staff in preparing this bill and look forward to working with them to make their vision a reality.”

Again, once President Obama signs the legislation, Simpson’s legislation would transfer to the City of Twin Falls four parcels of land (approximately 165 acres) scattered throughout the Auger Falls area and owned by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The bill stipulates that the land must be used for the development of the City’s public park concept and specifically prohibits any commercial or residential development on the transferred land.