This section of the Snake river is about 30 miles southwest of Boise. Popular boating stretches are both above and downstream of Swan Falls dam. Unique surroundings provide visitors a rare opportunity to observe golden eagles, prairie falcons, red-tailed hawks, and northern harriers in their natural environment. More than 800 pairs of raptors, including 15 different species nest in the area. The Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area (NCA), in southwest Idaho, was established in 1993 to protect a unique environment that supports one of the world's densest concentrations of nesting birds of prey. Falcons, eagles, hawks, and owls occur here in unique profusion and variety. The area was set aside in response to information gained from one of the most intensive raptor research efforts ever undertaken. Decades of scientific studies defined the area critical to the future of unique bird populations which have captured national and international attention.