January 9, 2006

The Department of Environmental Quality’s Laboratory Services Section has been recognized with a Laboratory of Excellence Award from Analytical Products Group, Inc. The award, given for achieving a 100% acceptable data rate in a study of 350 labs across the nation, noted that “this achievement is a demonstration of the superior quality of this laboratory.”

The DEQ’s laboratory services are provided for a variety of environmental programs throughout the state, including drinking water, beaches, public swimming pools, air quality, hazardous waste management, and many others. The laboratory has broad scientific capabilities for responding to new potential environmental concerns.

“This award recognizes the outstanding work performed on a daily basis by DEQ staff,” said DEQ Director Steven E. Chester. “Our laboratory, along with the rest of our department, has extraordinary scientists who have dedicated themselves to protecting our environment, and ensuring Michigan’s future.”

This award is the result of the latest National Water Pollution Proficiency Test evaluations in which the DEQ’s environmental lab scored a perfect 171 out of 171 acceptable data points.

The DEQ’s drinking water lab was similarly recognized in November, 2004 for achieving a 100% score.

Editor’s note: DEQ news releases are available on the department’s Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

“Protecting Michigan’s Environment, Ensuring Michigan’s Future”

Revised January 9, 2006 by Pat Watson