Several smaller roads have also been cut through the patterned ground . However, the mounds seem to have been largely left intact as the soil is not conducive to growing crops. The stony soil, high clay content, and hardpan layer all make tilling and irrigation difficult. Therefore, the mounds are typically left as is and used for grazing cattle. Even then, I notice the cattle are often not in these areas in the winter, perhaps because the water collects around the mounds, which I don't suppose is good for the cattle's feet.
Soil compaction can also be a problem, especially when the ground is wet.
Conclusion Siskiyou County has many interesting features. The patterned ground near the Weed Airport is one of them. There is a lot more to learn about these unique formations. If you know of or have any photographs of or publications relating to the mounds, the College of the Siskiyous Mount Shasta Collection , other local libraries, and local museums would appreciate the information. If you know stories about the alteration of the mounds, I would like to hear them as it will be easier to interpret their story if we know their previous extent.