The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is preparing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to evaluate the proposed basing of an F-16 Fighting Falcon Fighter Squadron at the Idaho Air National Guard Base at the Boise Air Terminal/Gowen Field in Ada County, Idaho. This Proposed Action would transition the 124th Fighter Wing (124 FW) from its current A-10C Thunderbolt II mission to an F-16 Fighting Falcon mission, involving up to 21 F-16 Block 40 aircraft. The EIS will also examine the facility improvements and construction required to support the new mission. The DAF is the lead agency and the Federal Aviation Administration is serving as a cooperating agency.
The EIS process provides a detailed analysis of potential environmental, social, and economic impacts associated with the Proposed Action. Topics under evaluation include aircraft noise, air quality, land use compatibility, biological and water resources, cultural and historic sites, infrastructure, and public services. The process includes opportunities for public involvement during a 30-day scoping period prior to impact analysis and a 45-day public review and comment period on the Draft EIS. The Draft EIS is expected in Summer 2026 and the Final EIS in Spring 2027. Public engagement is a critical part of this effort, and community members are encouraged to stay informed and participate by submitting comments through the project website or by mail or email.
