The shrinking role of the Amateur Astronomer

I have been active in casual astronomy for many years using 9X63
binoculars. However I have always promised myself a proper telescope
which I hope to order in the future, mostly for personal observations
and enjoyment.

However I cannot fail from reaching the conclusion that from the 60's
the role of the amateur astronomer has become a more and more minor
role. With the event of NEAT and LINEAR, the liklihood of amateur
discovering future comets has been severely reduced.

What aspects of astronomy do you consider to be still open, whereby an
amateur astronomer may still take part in serious astronomical
research?