What's It Like Living in Unincorporated Sonoma?

Do you live in the Sonoma Valley, but outside the city limits? If so, you know about the benefits and drawbacks of living in an unincorporated area.

California Watch has put together a special series on these communities on county land. Why? Many unincorporated communities around the state are poor, densely populated and lack some combination of sewer systems, clean drinking water, sidewalks, streetlights and storm drains.

Many of our neighborhoods in "The Springs" are in good shape, but other unincorporated areas have been the victim of years of government neglect.

Have a look at the series right here. If you live in one of the local unincorporated areas, tell us about the benefits and challenges of living there.

What's California Watch? It's team of talented and experienced reporters working for the independent, nonpartisan Center for Investigative Reporting. CalWatch emphasizes in-depth, high-impact reporting that delves not only into the issues Californians face, but also potential solutions.