Probably the oldest lake in North America, a unique ecosystem supporting fish and birds and wildlife in teeming abundance, and a landscape of breathtaking beauty, Clear Lake lies at the social, economic and spiritual heart of our community. This natural treasure is in trouble, and the responsibility of bringing it back to health falls on those of us lucky enough to live here.

That’s why I’m supporting Measure E, despite personal reservations about spending money on nuisance weed and algae control rather than on the identification and repair of the root causes of the problems afflicting the lake.

Although some of Measure E’s objectives are more significant than others, all are beneficial and some – keeping invasive mussels out and implementing the Middle Creek marsh wetland restoration project – are of surpassing importance.

Furthermore, by demonstrating our willingness to take financial responsibility, we will increase the probability of obtaining additional funding from additional sources for other desirable projects.

Restoring Clear Lake’s vitality is imperative for its own sake, and also indispensable for the future of our community.

The proposed tax is too tiny to be burdensome to any individual, all the receipts will stay right here in Lake County rather than being exported to Sacramento like most other sales and property taxes, and the measure includes a far greater level of public oversight than applies to any other segment of the county budget.

Please join me in voting for Measure E.

Victoria Brandon lives in Lower Lake, Calif.