MWH Global to acquire Outback Ecology

MWH Global, a strategic consulting, technical engineering and construction services firm in the wet infrastructure sector, has announced its intent to purchase Outback Ecology, an Australian environmental consultancy associated with the natural resources and mining industry for more than 20 years.

The planned acquisition provides an opportunity to combine MWH current product offerings for the resources and energy industries, from water management and natural resources engineering to mine remediation, with Outback Ecology’s specialised services in this area.

“Both MWH and Outback Ecology have similar values and focus on water, sustainability, ecology and the environment to effectively serve our clients and communities,” said Joseph Adams, president of Energy & Industry at MWH Global. “MWH is pleased to welcome Outback Ecology’s 75 employees, including scientists and specialists who will continue to work with clients across the life cycle of mining and energy projects from evaluation and permitting through reclamation and beyond.”

Harley Lacy, Outback Ecology’s chairman and founder, noted: “The Outback Ecology leadership team committed early on that if we were ever to be acquired, we would join a growing but stable firm that has similar values, offers our leaders and staff enhanced opportunities in Asia-Pacific and globally, and will ensure our commitment to client service and quality work is maintained. We believe MWH is that firm.”

Outback Ecology delivers services across Australia and the Pacific Rim, operating out of three primary office locations in Perth, Brisbane and Kalgoorlie. MWH has more than 500 employees in Australia, where it has been serving clients in the Asia-Pacific region for more than 40 years.

Integration of the two companies will begin immediately upon transaction completion, which is expected to take place in early to mid April. While initially maintaining its identity as Outback Ecology, the organisation will transition its name to MWH.