Freeport, Texas (August 15, 2006) - The Dow Chemical Company achieved the 2006 William M. Benkert Environmental Award's highest level of distinction given by the U.S. Coast Guard in recognition of its Marine Terminal in Freeport, Texas. Receiving the OSPREY distinction, the facility was recognized for its commitment to outstanding marine environmental protection programs during the American Petroleum Institute Tanker Conference in San Diego, Calif., on June 12.

Presented by the U.S. Coast Guard Assistant Commandant for Prevention, Rear Admiral Craig E. Bone, the award was given as part of the large business facility category.

"It was very gratifying to see the full breadth of our work and accomplishments compiled in one place," said Dawn Brubaker, marine & terminal operations process leader. "We couldn't have won this award without the quality of work and the high caliber people we have in the Freeport Marine Terminal, North America Marine, and EH&S (Environment, Health and Safety). I am extremely proud of this team."

The premier national honor that recognizes excellence in marine environmental protection, the William M. Benkert Award was created to recognize vessel and facilities operators who have implemented outstanding marine environmental protection programs - programs that far exceed mere compliance with industrial and regulatory standards.

The OSPREY level honor is not awarded each year. It is reserved for significant achievement. Subsequent levels of award following the OSPREY level, in order of precedence, are: Gold, Silver, Bronze and Honorable Mention.

"This award is great recognition of the outstanding efforts Dow people put forth to protect the environment," said Bob Walker, vice president and site leader for Texas operations. "My congratulations go to the entire marine terminal group here in Texas operations."

The 2006 Benkert Award competition was comprised of six award categories, Large Vessels Operations, Large Facilities Operations, Foreign Vessels Operations, Small Business Vessel Operations, Small Business Facilities Operations, and Special Small Business Operations. Nine other companies received the award of varying distinctions.

About Dow

Dow is a diversified chemical company that harnesses the power of science and technology to improve living daily. The Company offers a broad range of innovative products and services to customers in more than 175 countries, helping them to provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. Built on a commitment to its principles of sustainability, Dow has annual sales of $46 billion and employs 42,000 people worldwide. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted. More information about Dow can be found at www.dow.com.

OLD - Dow Chemical Company

OLD - Dow Chemical Company

With annual sales of $54 billion and 46,000 employees worldwide, Dow is a diversified chemical company that combines the power of science and technology with the "Human Element" to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company delivers a broad range of products and services to customers in around 160 countries, connecting chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted.