We all know that Lake County faces some tough problems these days, and so does the state of California, problems made even more challenging by the effects of one of the worst droughts on record.

At a time like this we simply cannot afford ineffectual business as usual in Sacramento: we need strong, fair leaders who relish hard work, have the integrity to speak the truth and stand up to the enticements of special interests, and possess the foresight to look beyond the conflicting pressures of the moment and focus on sustainable long term solutions that will meet the needs of our children and grandchildren.

That’s why, as a resident of Assembly District 4, I’m so excited to have an opportunity to vote for the next great champion in the state legislature, Joe Krovoza.

Joe’s public service record, effectiveness and commitment are all truly outstanding. He has worked for 17 years at UC Davis developing world-class academic programs in clean transportation and energy efficiency; as mayor of Davis he has spearheaded efforts to protect open space, improve air and water quality, increase energy and water efficiency, and reduce carbon pollution; and as head of the Putah Creek Council he helped to transform the creek's ecology and restore its historic salmon run. Above all, he understands water on a level unmatched by any legislative candidate past or present.

In the Assembly, Joe will stand up for California's environmental and agricultural treasures and will aggressively combat climate change and polluters.

This is why he has been endorsed by the Sierra Club, and why the California League of Conservation Voters, environmental leaders, and prominent ranchers throughout the district are also rallying behind him.

Assembly District 4 needs Joe, and so does California: please join me in voting for him on June 3.

Victoria Brandon is conservation chair for the Sierra Club Lake Group. She lives in Lower Lake, Calif.