Protecting Sonoma County’s Air, Water, and Community

Sonoma County is once again facing the threat of an industrial asphalt plant in Forestville, an area known for its scenic beauty, rich agricultural heritage, and environmentally conscious community. Canyon Rock, Inc.’s proposal to establish an asphalt facility along Green Valley Creek not only contradicts the environmental values of our county but also threatens public health, the local economy, and the delicate ecosystems of the Russian River watershed.

This fight is not new. Fourteen years ago, Forestville residents successfully prevented an asphalt plant from being built after a protracted 12-year legal battle. That settlement included protections for Green Valley Creek, air quality, and community well-being. Yet, despite the overwhelming public opposition then, and now, Canyon Rock is trying once again to push through a project that would expose our community to harmful pollution and industrial hazards.

Why This Asphalt Plant is a Bad Idea

A Public Health Hazard

Asphalt production emits a toxic cocktail of airborne pollutants, including benzene, formaldehyde, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), many of which are known carcinogens. These chemicals don’t just dissipate into the air; they settle in our soils, contaminate our water, and put residents, particularly children and the elderly, at risk.

Forestville, like the rest of Sonoma County, has suffered through years of extreme wildfires and hazardous air quality. Adding a high-emission industrial facility to an area that already struggles with air pollution is not just reckless, it’s an outright disregard for community health.

Threats to Green Valley Creek and the Russian River

Green Valley Creek is a critical habitat for endangered Coho salmon and steelhead trout, species that have already been pushed to the brink due to climate change and habitat destruction. The runoff from asphalt production, laden with heavy metals and petroleum byproducts, could further degrade water quality, disrupt fragile ecosystems, and threaten local wildlife.

This plant’s location is dangerously close to the Russian River watershed, a primary source of drinking water for thousands of Sonoma County residents. Any contamination from industrial operations, whether through spills, truck leaks, or airborne particulate settling into waterways, could have devastating consequences for public water supplies.

An Industrial Nuisance in a Rural Community

Forestville is a residential, agricultural, and tourism-driven area, not an industrial zone. Scenic Highway 116, which runs through Forestville, is a designated scenic corridor, celebrated for its redwood groves, vineyards, and small-town charm. The introduction of an asphalt plant, complete with heavy truck traffic, toxic emissions, and industrial noise, would erode the very character that makes this region special.

Local businesses, especially those in the wine and hospitality industry, could suffer from the presence of an asphalt plant. Visitors seeking a peaceful retreat among the vineyards will not be drawn to an area overshadowed by industrial pollution and the persistent stench of asphalt fumes.

Increased Fire and Safety Risks

The Russian River region has faced repeated catastrophic wildfires in recent years. Asphalt production requires the use of highly flammable petrochemicals, which introduce unnecessary fire hazards to an already vulnerable region. The plant’s operations would involve hot asphalt storage, heavy machinery, and transport trucks carrying combustible materials, all potential fire risks in a county where fire safety should be a top priority.

Additionally, the increase in large truck traffic on narrow rural roads presents serious safety concerns for pedestrians, cyclists, and local commuters.

A Better Vision for Forestville

Instead of allowing a polluting industry to take root in Forestville, Sonoma County should focus on sustainable economic development that aligns with its environmental and community values. There are better alternatives, ones that protect air and water quality, preserve the region’s scenic beauty, and create long-term, sustainable jobs.

Forestville and Sonoma County residents have fought this battle before, and we must do so again. The Board of Supervisors should reject this asphalt plant proposal outright and uphold the protections that the community worked so hard to secure.

As we reflect on this election season, we find ourselves navigating a mix of emotions. National results may have left us disheartened, but locally, Sonoma County has proven that our collective efforts can create meaningful change. Together, we’ve championed the protection of open spaces, supported forward-thinking climate policies, and ensured our community’s voice is heard.

Why Community Engagement Matters Now More Than Ever
These successes remind us that progress begins at home, in our neighborhoods, and within our local government. To continue building a sustainable and just Sonoma County, we need your involvement. Legislative decisions on critical issues like climate action, water, air quality, equity, and affordable housing are being made every day. We need dedicated volunteers to monitor and advocate for these issues at local and state levels.

How You Can Help
We are calling on our members to become Political Board Watchers—to attend meetings of City Councils, Boards of Supervisors, and other legislative bodies. Whether your passion lies in forestry, social justice, transportation, or another key area, your efforts will help hold decision-makers accountable and ensure that our values are represented.

To streamline your involvement, we’ve created a Volunteer Interest Form where you can share your areas of interest and availability. Whether you can commit to a few hours a month or more, your participation makes a difference.

Together, We Can Drive Change
In times of uncertainty, it’s essential that we come together to create the future we want to see. Let’s continue to build on our local victories and make a lasting impact, one decision at a time.

Building a Stronger Community in District 5

Caroline Bañuelos, an activist leader with over 30 years devoted engagement with our Sonoma County
community, is running for the District 5 seat on the Santa Rosa City Council. With a deep connection to
her district, having lived there for the past decade, Caroline’s campaign is focused on bridging gaps and
fostering a more inclusive community.

Caroline has been a very active advocate for the environment in her various leadership roles, particularly as a Santa Rosa Planning Commissioner. Additionally, her extensive public service includes the Santa Rosa

Junior College Board, co-chairing the Santa Rosa Cinco de Mayo Committee and chairing the Community and Local Law Enforcement (CALLE) task Force, where she worked to address racial inequities and improve law enforcement relationships.

In her current role as Community Partnerships Coordinator at Sonoma State University, Caroline builds partnerships that benefit both the university and the broader community. Her leadership extends to her positions as vice president of the KBBF board and co-founder of the Sonoma County Latino Democratic Club.

Caroline’s campaign is centered on ensuring access to affordable housing, addressing homelessness compassionately, promoting transparent communication between the city and its residents, and fostering a sustainable economy that protects the environment. Her dedication to social justice and her deep ties to the community make her an ideal candidate to represent District 5. Endorsed by numerous community leaders and organizations, Caroline Bañuelos is a candidate who embodies determination, commitment, and courage. Her vision for Santa Rosa is one where every resident, especially those with lower incomes and the working class, has the opportunity to thrive. She believes in a future where the unique qualities of District 5 are preserved and enhanced, and she is ready to work tirelessly to achieve this vision.

Caroline Bañuelos is extraordinarily qualified to represent the residents of District 5 on the Santa Rosa City Council, bringing her passion, experience, and unwavering dedication to the role. Together, she believes we can build a stronger, more inclusive Santa Rosa that reflects the values and aspirations of all its residents.

Sonoma County Conservation Action proudly endorses Chris Rogers for California State Assembly, District 2, recognizing his deep roots, dedication, and proven leadership in our community. As a lifelong resident of the North Coast, Chris understands the unique challenges of our region, from balancing rural and urban needs to addressing environmental and economic pressures.

His leadership during critical moments—multiple wildfires, floods, and the pandemic—demonstrates his ability to lead with resilience and pragmatism in times of crisis.

During his tenure as Mayor, Chris championed policies that reflect our commitment to sustainable, community-driven progress. He balanced the city budget after years of deficits, expanded affordable childcare, and launched the groundbreaking “baby bonds” program to support future generations. Under his leadership, Santa Rosa transitioned to 100% renewable energy in public buildings and implemented free public transit for veterans, seniors, and youth.

Chris’s commitment to solving regional challenges like housing, homelessness, and drought aligns with the issues we prioritize. His hands-on experience with these pressing problems ensures he understands what it takes to build a sustainable, livable community for working people.

We are confident that Chris will champion forward-thinking solutions in Sacramento, advocating for environmental stewardship, affordable housing, and economic resilience. His deep connection to the district, combined with a results-driven approach, makes him the right choice to represent the diverse needs of the North Coast.

Measure U, the City of Sebastopol sales tax measure, proposes a half of a percent increase in the city’s sales tax, which is critical to addressing Sebastopol’s fiscal challenges. This modest increase will generate approximately $1,520,000 annually, providing vital support for essential city services, including parks maintenance, streets and infrastructure upkeep, and support for public safety, including 911 and emergency response.

Measure U will distribute the tax burden fairly since it applies to residents, those living outside the city limits, and visitors. This ensures the cost of maintaining city services is shared by all who benefit from them, including Sebastopol’s parks, businesses, and cultural attractions. Measure U will increase the cost of a $100 dinner by 50 cents.

The proceeds from this tax will go into the general fund, helping to sustain core services that keep Sebastopol safe and functioning. The city’s current financial outlook is unsustainable, with projections indicating the potential depletion of reserves by 2027. Measure U will provide a reliable and needed revenue stream to prevent reductions in services that would otherwise be necessary.

Sebastopol enjoyed more than 60% in reserves before COVID. These reserves were used to get through the pandemic. Increasing costs and a slow recovery have been difficult for small cities outside major transportation routes that do not have revenues from big box stores. Measure U will ensure Sebastopol’s long-term financial stability while maintaining the high quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

It is a reasonable and essential measure to keep the community safe, vibrant, and well-maintained.

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We are pleased to endorse JB Leep for the Windsor Town Council. JB is a dedicated community leader with a strong background in environmental sustainability, recommended by environmental champion and longtime ally, Debora Fudge, who is not seeking re-election.

As President of Waste Less Windsor, JB has led efforts to reduce single-use plastics and promote recycling, eliminating over 12,000 plastic cups annually at town events. His hands-on leadership has also included educating local students and organizing volunteers to make a positive environmental impact.

JB’s professional experience includes over 35 years in business, including owning and operating Blue Bear Software, where he developed strong management, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.

JB’s priorities for Windsor include protecting its small-town character while supporting balanced housing development, maintaining public safety, and addressing climate change through local action. He is dedicated to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and leading environmental progress through the implementation of Windsor’s Climate Action Plan.

With a clear vision for Windsor’s future and a proven track record in both community engagement and environmental leadership, JB Leep is the right candidate to continue the important work of making Windsor a sustainable, thriving community. We encourage you to support JB in this crucial election.

Sonoma County Conservation Action strongly opposes Measure J, the so-called Factory Farm initiative. Despite its intention to address environmental and animal welfare concerns, Measure J poses significant risks to Sonoma County’s sustainable and organic farming communities that have been at the forefront of innovative, environmentally friendly agriculture nationwide.

If passed, Measure J could lead to unintended consequences, undermining the very goals it seeks to achieve. For instance, it threatens to increase greenhouse gas emissions by forcing the closure of local farms, which currently supply fresh, organic food to our region. As a result, we would rely on food transported from distant locations, increasing our carbon footprint. Additionally, animals raised in other counties likely have less stringent animal welfare and environmental regulations than Sonoma County.

We must work to strengthen existing local environmental and animal welfare regulations in Sonoma, not create new, redundant, and conflicting systems.

Instead of promoting environmental stewardship, Measure J harms the local economy by destabilizing small and sustainable farms. These farms provide high-quality food, jobs, and support local businesses. By marginalizing farming and potentially driving farms out of business, the farmland that provides the greenbelts we value may disappear. Farmland protects Sonoma County from the sprawling development we see in places like Los Angeles. Measure J overlooks the important role local organic farms play in maintaining biodiversity and healthy ecosystems through sustainable practices like crop rotation and polyculture.

SCCA joins its longtime allies, Occidental Arts and Ecology Center, and Community Alliance for Family Farms Sonoma, to VOTE NO on Measure J. Supporting local farms is crucial to preserving our environment, community, and economy.

CORRECTION: In an earlier version of this article we mistakenly included the Sierra Club Redwood Chapter as endorsing a NO on Measure J position, when in fact the Sierra Club has not taken a position on Measure J.

Together, Heather Hannan-Kramer and Ariel Kelley represent a powerful partnership on the council that will be instrumental in shaping Healdsburg’s future. Their combined expertise in business strategy, climate action, and social equity makes them the ideal candidates to lead the city toward a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future.

By electing both Heather and Ariel to the City Council, Healdsburg residents can ensure that their city is governed by leaders who are deeply committed to the well-being of the community and the environment.

Sonoma County Conservation Action is proud to support these two outstanding candidates and urges all Healdsburg residents to vote for Heather Hannan-Kramer and Ariel Kelley in the upcoming election. Together, they will form a necessary voting block on the City Council, ensuring that environmental sustainability and social equity remain at the forefront of Healdsburg’s policy decisions.

A Commitment to Our Children and Community

Sonoma County Conservation Action proudly endorses Measure I as a crucial investment in our future. With Sonoma County losing over 40% of its childcare capacity, parents are struggling to find affordable, quality care. This shortage has also impacted our youngest residents, nearly 70% of children now enter kindergarten unprepared, putting them at a disadvantage from the start.

Measure I offers a sustainable solution by generating $30 million annually through a ¼-cent sales tax. This funding will ensure a living wage for childcare providers, create new childcare facilities, and expand vital services for children impacted by homelessness and trauma.

SCCA recognizes that access to early education is not only an educational need but a social justice issue. The current childcare crisis disproportionately affects low-income families and communities of color, reinforcing cycles of inequality. By supporting Measure I, we take a stand for equity, ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has access to quality education and health care.

Measure I aligns with SCCA’s core values by addressing the critical intersection of education, economic stability, and social justice. When we invest in early childhood education, we lay the foundation for a more equitable and prosperous future for all.

Together, with your support, we can pass Measure I and ensure Sonoma County’s children thrive. Vote Yes on Measure I. Our kids, our future, our responsibility.