Release Details

METAIRIE, La., Feb 14, 2005 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Newpark Resources, Inc. (NYSE: NR) announced that its Newpark Environmental Water Solutions LLC, (NEWS) operating unit has been awarded a contract for the treatment of water generated from coal bed natural gas production in the Powder River basin of Wyoming.

The process to be applied by NEWS utilizes a patented activator that breaks the molecular bond between water and dissolved minerals within the liquid stream. The activator operates without an external energy source. Once separated, the water produced by the plant is beneficially reused and the natural minerals are processed into a non-hazardous solid for disposal. Startup of the plant is scheduled for mid-April 2005.

James D. Cole, Newpark's Chairman and CEO said, "Newpark obtained the exclusive license for the use of this technology in the U.S. and Canada following successful field tests in 2004. Our initial target market for this proprietary treatment technology is focused within the oil and gas industry, where large volumes of water are created in the production process and must be treated or recycled."

The treatment process will be utilized by Anadarko Petroleum Corporation (NYSE: APC) at its County Line field near Gillette, Wyo.

Newpark Resources, Inc. is a provider of drilling fluids, environmental waste treatment solutions, and temporary work sites and access roads for oilfield and other commercial markets.

The foregoing discussion contains 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Act of 1934, as amended. There are risks and uncertainties that could cause future events and results to differ materially from those anticipated by management in the forward-looking statements included in this press release. For further information regarding these and other factors, risks and uncertainties affecting Newpark, reference is made to the risk factors set forth in the Prospectus included in Newpark's Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed on May 8, 2002 (File No. 333-87840), and to the section entitled "Forward Looking Statements" on page 17 of that Prospectus. In particular, as described on page 9 of that Prospectus, any material decline in the level of oil and gas exploration and production activity could result in fewer opportunities being available for the service industry in general and Newpark in particular, and may adversely affect the demand for our services. In addition, as described on page 13 of that Prospectus, and rescission or relaxation of governmental regulations, including in the discharge regulations recently implemented, could reduce the demand for Newpark's services and reduce Newpark's revenues and income. You are strongly urged to review these sections for a more detailed discussion of these risks and uncertainties. Newpark's SEC filings can be obtained at no charge at www.sec.gov, as well as through our Website, www.newpark.com.

SOURCE Newpark Resources, Inc.

Matthew W. Hardey, Vice President of Finance of Newpark Resources, Inc.,
+1-504-838-8222

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