STL Expert Speaks on Emerging Technologies for Sediment Testing

PRESS RELEASE

Date June 29, 2006
For Immediate Release

David Thal of Severn Trent Laboratories, Inc. (STL) presented a guest lecture at the Louisiana Water Environment Association’s (LWEA) Spring Technical Conference. The presentation focused on the application of analytical chemistry to risk assessment issues associated with contaminated sediments.

The Spring Technical Conference took place April 27, 2006 at the West Baton Rouge Conference Center, Port Allen, LA. The presentation entitled "Chemical Analysis of Sediments: Programs, Models Measures and Advances," highlighted the use of specialized techniques to detect carcinogens in river water at the parts-per-quintillion levels. An emerging method was demonstrated to directly measure the amount of bioavailable toxins in sediment porewaters. Mr. Thal described his group's participation with the University of North Dakota's Dr. Stephen Hawthorne, to perform a proof-of-concept study for submission to the US EPA.

The mission of the Louisiana Water Environment Association (LWEA) is to protect, promote, and enhance the water environment. The organization offers members a venue for professional growth and development while sharing information, expertise and resources with members, the public, and others concerning environmental water issues.

Mr. Thal is the Sediments and Tissues Operations Manager for STL. He directs research and production activities of seven laboratories specializing in the trace level analysis of environmental contaminants in sediments and tissues. Mr. Thal is a recognized expert in the application of advanced analytical techniques. He has published articles on these topics in several scientific and industry journals, and has presented research at international scientific conferences.

To view Mr. Thal’s presentation, Chemical Analysis Sediments, presented at the LWEA Conference go to: http://www.stl-inc.com/downloads/Sediment%20Analytical%20Chemistry%20LWEA.ppt

About STL

Severn Trent Laboratories, Inc. (STL) is the industry's leading environmental testing company. Operations in the United States include 31 laboratories, 16 Service Centers and QED Environmental Systems, Inc., the leading supplier of groundwater sampling equipment and remediation pumping systems. STL affiliates include the Aerotech P&K team, which brings together the capabilities of Aerotech Laboratories, Inc. and P&K Microbiology Services, Inc. STL employs over 2,100 people and has revenues of $245 million in the United States.

For more information, contact:

Jim Miller
Vice President Business Development
Severn Trent Laboratories, Inc.
716-691-2600
Visit our website @ www.stl-inc.com