Travis Here--
My astronomy roots were in the Chicago area. Lake County Astronomical Society
dealt with northern Illinois' well publicized weather by essentially have two
sites.
One was on a farm with usable, but not perfect, skies. It was within an hour or
so of most members (the farmer allowed this gratis). This made it possible to
organize club star parties year round and call them off when the weather acted
up (mostly Winter) without too much difficulty.
The second site was about 2-2 1/2 hours from most members. It was in a State
Park (again, gratis). It was only usable during fair weather, but the skies
were pretty good.
These two sites became the de facto spots for get togethers depending on
weather. And both were free.
My point here is that buying sites may not be necessary. It may be possible to
designate a "North" "West" "East" "South" preferred areas and put a SAC guide
together suggesting their use for astronomy outings.
Travis
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