In the North Bay and across California, our health and economy depend on reliable supplies of clean water — water we need for everyday drinking and to support our farms and fish.
Water also is the bedrock of an outdoor recreation industry that employs more than 4,000 people and contributes $731 million annually to the economy of Sonoma County, according to a recent study by the county’s Economic Development Board.
Sonoma County residents take pride in this beautiful place we call home, and most locals take good care of the land and waters we share.
California’s next governor will inherit some of the strongest water laws in the country, but laws are only effective if they are adequately enforced.
Whoever takes the reins from Gov.
Jerry Brown must establish a strong, transparent enforcement strategy to protect clean water for our communities, economy and environment.
With the federal government actively working to defund and eviscerate clean water laws, we need strong champions in Sacramento and throughout the state to hold polluters accountable.
Perhaps the most important water-related decisions our next governor will have to make will be appointments to the state and regional water boards.
All too often, California water boards lack the resources and political support to pursue and punish polluters.
She lives in Duncans Mills.