David B.

Basically you want the ground to stay outside so that if lightning strikes, it takes the path of least resistance. Think about it. Sure your inside outlets are properly grounded, but a direct strike travels to the gound through all the cables connected to that it strikes (i.e. your cable). Most times if you have a surge protector on your equipment that will prevent any damage (except the protector will be fried). If you can prevent the energy even reaching that point, that is best. The ground used on power masts on your house (used for above ground power) is a pipe clamp on the mast tied to a single strand 12-14 guage copper wire clamped to a piece of rebar driven six feet into the ground (I used to be an electrician). Something like this could be used for your situation. Just an observation from someone who has seen damage from direct lightning strikes.