Who Are We?

We are your friends, neighbors, and coworkers in the greater Livingston County area, which includes western Oakland County and southern Genesee County. Our group numbers over 1,200 members of the national organization, the Sierra Club, the oldest and largest environmental organization in the world. Our group was formed by concerned residents who felt the need for a local organization to address the unique environmental issues of this area.

We come from a wide range of backgrounds. We are engineers, schoolteachers, healthcare professionals, homemakers, business people, trades workers…the list goes on. But we all share a love of the outdoors and a desire to preserve what we have here in the greater Livingston County area so that the generations to come can enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings that enrich the lives of us all.

We are all volunteers in the Crossroads Group, as are all of our fellow club members in groups across the state. But we often work together and we share the same goals with the support of the Michigan Chapter of the Sierra Club and the national organization.

Why a Sierra Group in this Area?

The greater Livingston County area is rich with lakes, rivers, clean air, wetlands, and forested hillsides. Because of its beauty, nearby big cities, and location at the intersection of two major freeways, it has become one of the fastest-growing areas in Michigan. We have come to realize that the natural environment that we enjoy here can be lost if steps aren't taken to protect it. Now and in the future we will be faced with issues that will have a significant impact on our quality of life. Our group's name, Crossroads, was chosen as a reminder that this area is really at a crossroads, and that we can influence the path that is taken.

What is the Objective of the Group?

The Crossroads Group has as its objectives to protect and enjoy the natural resources of this area, and to practice and promote the responsible use of this area's ecosystems and resources. We want to educate our citizens and enlist their help- your help- in protecting our natural environment.

What are the Main Issues that the Group Deals With?

A survey undertaken when the Crossroads Group was established revealed concerns about loss of rural lifestyle, uncontrolled residential and business development, wetland destruction, gravel pits and landfills, loss of wild areas, waste disposal, and air and water pollution. More recently, fracking and pipelines have become of great concern. The Crossroads Group has been involved in some fashion with all these issues over the years and others as well. At leadership meetings, we set our priorities and get things done. Current environmental issues are posted on our website along with avenues to take action.

Taking Time to Enjoy

The Crossroads Group is not all work and no play, however. Throughout the year, we sponsor a number of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking/canoeing, and cross-country skiing. And we offer free programs on topics of interest several times a year. All are welcome to our programs and outings. We hope you can join us at one of our activities. You will enjoy your time and make new friends and perhaps decide to help us in our efforts to make the greater Livingston County area a better place to live.

Crossroads Group Leaders