Converse Laboratories Incorporated (CLI) has a long-standing history of providing reliable, high-quality analytical testing services to the Northern New York community.

 

The laboratory was originally established as Watertown Dairy Lab, purchased by its previous owners in 1981. In 1986, the business was incorporated as Converse Laboratories Incorporated, marking an important step in its growth and development. In its early years, CLI focused primarily on dairy testing, operating with approvals from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. As industry needs evolved, so did the laboratory.

 

In 1985, CLI expanded its analytical capabilities to include drinking water, wastewater, and environmental testing, earning certification through the New York State Department of Health Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP).Since 1999, CLI has maintained accreditation through the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Conference (NELAC), demonstrating its ongoing commitment to quality, accuracy, and regulatory compliance.

 

The laboratory was proudly owned and operated for many years by David Converse and Donna Zang, whose leadership established a strong foundation of technical excellence and trusted service.

 

In April 2026, long-time employee and Technical Director Kathleen Bonney acquired full ownership of Converse Laboratories Incorporated. With over a decade of hands-on experience and deep institutional knowledge, Kathleen is committed to building on the laboratory’s legacy while continuing to provide dependable, high-quality testing services to the community for years to come.