WHITE WATER ASSOCIATES Inc. of Amasa is under new ownership. From left are former owner Bette Premo, Michael Hedtke, new co-owners Sally Hedtke and Jen Toivonen, Brad Toivonen, and former owner Dean Premo. The Premos will continue with the environmental and ecological services company as employees in the area of business development and project management. (Kent Premo photo)

AMASA — Two Iron County entrepreneurs took ownership of White Water Associates Inc. on Jan. 3.

Sally Hedtke and Jen Toivonen have deep roots in Iron County. Both have been important parts of the White Water Associates’ team.

In June, Hedtke and Toivonen approached White Water Associates founders, Bette and Dean Premo with a proposal to purchase the business.

White Water Associates has provided environmental and ecological services throughout the United States since 1985, when the Premos started the company. Over the years it has grown in services, staff and facilities. The full-service laboratory does testing for a broad cross-section of private and public clients for analyzing drinking water, groundwater, surface water, soil and wastewater. Ecological services include surveys for plants and animals and assessment of lakes and streams.

Although the Premos have transferred ownership of the business, they intend to continue as White Water Associates employees in the areas of business development and project management.

“This is a wonderful role for us to play,” Bette Premo said. “We want our experience and expertise to contribute to the future successes of White Water Associates. At the same time, we can witness Sally and Jen lead the company in new and exciting ways.”

This leadership was evident on Day 1 of the new ownership, as Hedtke and Toivonen laid out plans for a seamless transition. The name White Water Associates Inc. will continue with a recommitment to customer service.

“A primary motivation for Jen and me is to foster and grow this thriving business in our home community,” Hedtke said.

After a nearly 30 year career as a high school science teacher, Toivonen gravitates to the analytical chemistry part of the business.

“It is a pleasure to apply science in real-world settings,” Toivonen said. “Teaching provided me with skills to help White Water Associates clients understand technical results.”

For water testing kits or to see other services the company offers, go to www.white-water-associates.com.