Jim'
Good for you. Sounds like a series of automated stations are just what YOU ordered and I'm sure that the weather service will appreciate the additional data. It may be that they (National Weather Service)were hoping that someone or some group would REQUEST that something like that be done. Things seldom get done until outside interests get going on it. The automatic observational stations are the way to go. Don't hold your breath though unless things have moved past the planning stage. I'm a retired National Weather Service employee and know how slowly things can move.

The fishermen will thank you.
The citizens will also...
The national weather service will too.

Ol' Bill
National Weather Service (retired)