BOULDER – The University Corporation for Atmospheric Research’s A-plus long-term bond rating has been affirmed by the credit-rating agency Standard & Poor’s.

The rating reflects UCAR’s ability to increase its financial strength, S&P stated in a report that was released in June. UCAR is a leading organization supporting atmospheric and Earth-system science. Bonds have been issued over the years so UCAR could procure and equip facilities.

UCAR is a consortium of more than 100 colleges and universities. It manages the National Center for Atmospheric Research under sponsorship by the National Science Foundation. The organization has an annual budget of more than $200 million.

In its report, S&P cited a number of UCAR’s strengths: financial flexibility, stable membership, longstanding relationship with NSF, manageable debt and solid operating performance.

Melissa Miller, UCAR’s vice president of finance and administration, said the organization works hard to maintain a high credit rating, which translates into lower costs for its funders.

“UCAR is vigilant in taking the necessary steps to ensure continued sound fiscal management amid a frequently changing financial landscape,” Miller said.