Sample records for kgra
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Castle Creek known geothermal resource area: an environmental analysis
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Spencer, S.G.; Russell, B.F.
1979-09-01
The Castle Creek known geothermal resource area (KGRA) is part of the large Bruneau-Grand View thermal anomaly in southwestern Idaho. The KGRA is located in the driest area of Idaho and annual precipitation averages 230 mm. The potential of subsidence and slope failure is high in sediments of the Glenns Ferry Formation and Idaho Group found in the KGRA. A major concern is the potential impact of geothermal development on the Snake River Birds of Prey Natural Area which overlaps the KGRA. Any significant economic growth in Owyhee County may strain the ability of the limited health facilities in themore » county. The Idaho Archaeological survey has located 46 archaeological sites within the KGRA.« less
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Heat flow and geothermal potential of the East Mesa KGRA, Imperial Valley, California
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Swanberg, C. A.
1974-01-01
The East Mesa KGRA (Known Geothermal Resource Area) is located in the southeast part of the Imperial Valley, California, and is roughly 150 kilometers square in areal extent. A new heat flow technique which utilizes temperature gradient measurements across best clays is presented and shown to be as accurate as conventional methods for the present study area. Utilizing the best clay gradient technique, over 70 heat flow determinations have been completed within and around the East Mesa KGRA. Background heat flow values range from 1.4 to 2.4 hfu (1 hfu = .000001 cal. per square centimeter-second) and are typical of those throughout the Basin and Range province. Heat flow values for the northwest lobe of the KGRA (Mesa anomaly) are as high as 7.9 hfu, with the highest values located near gravity and seismic noise maxima and electrical resistivity minima. An excellent correlation exists between heat flow contours and faults defined by remote sensing and microearthquake monitoring.
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Bruneau Known Geothermal Resource Area: an environmental analysis
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Spencer, S.G.; Russell, B.F.
1979-09-01
The Bruneau Known Geothermal Resource Area (KGRA) is part of the Bruneau-Grandview thermal anomaly, the largest geothermal area in the western US. This part of Owyhee County is the driest part of Idaho. The KGRA is associated with the southern boundary fault zone of the Snake River Plain. Thermal water, produced from numerous artesian wells in the region, is supplied from two major aquifers. Ecological concerns include the threatened Astragalus mulfordiae and the numerous birds of prey nesting in the Snake River canyon northwest of the KGRA. Extensive geothermal development may strain the limited health care facilities in the county.more » Ethnographic information suggests that there is a high probability of prehistoric cultural materials being remnant in the Hot Spring locality.« less
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Geothermal energy in Washington: site data base and development status
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Bloomquist, R.G.
1979-04-01
This is an attempt to identify the factors which have affected and will continue to affect geothermal assessment and development in the state. The eight potential sites chosen for detailed analysis include: Indian Heaven KGRA, Mount St. Helens KGRA, Kennedy Hot Springs KGRA, Mount Adams PGRA (Potential Geothermal Resource Area), Mount Rainier PGRA, Mount Baker PGRA, Olympic-Sol Duc Hot Springs, and Yakima. The following information is included for each site: site data, site location and physical description, geological/geophysical description, reservoir characteristics, land ownership and leasing, geothermal development status, institutional characteristics, environmental factors, transportation and utilities, and population. A number ofmore » serious impediments to geothermal development were identified which can be solved only by legislative action at the state or federal level and/or changes in attitudes by regulatory agencies. (MHR)« less
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DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Spencer, S.G.; Russell, B.F.; Sullivan, J.F.
This volume is a partially annotated bibliography of reference materials pertaining to the seven KGRA's. The bibliography is divided into sections by program element as follows: terrestrial ecology, aquatic ecology, heritage resources, socioeconomics and demography, geology, geothermal, soils, hydrology and water quality, seismicity, and subsidence. Cross-referencing is available for those references which are applicable to specific KGRA's. (MHR)
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Sorey, Michael; Colvard, Elizabeth; Sturchio, N.C.
1990-01-01
A study of potential impacts of geothermal development in the Corwin Springs KGRA north of Yellowstone Park on thermal springs within the Park is being conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey. Thermal waters in the KGRA and at Mammoth Hot Springs, located 13 km inside the Park boundary, are high in bicarbonate and sulfate and are actively depositing travertine. These similarities and the existence of numerous regional-scale structural and stratigraphic features that could provide conduits for fluid flow at depth indicate a possible cause for concern. The objectives of this study include delineations of any hydrologic connections between these thermal waters, the level of impact of geothermal development in the event of such connections, and mitigation measures to minimize or eliminate adverse impacts. The study involves a number of geochemical, geophysical, geologic, and hydrologic techniques, but does not include any test drilling. Preliminary results suggest that thermal waters at Bear Creek Springs may contain a component of water derived from Mammoth but that thermal waters at La Duke Hot Spring do not. The total rate of thermal water that discharges in the area proposed for geothermal development (near La Duke) has been determined; restricting the net production of thermal water to rates less than this total could provide a satisfactory margin of safety for development.
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Mountain home known geothermal resource area: an environmental analysis
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Spencer, S.G.; Russell, B.F.
1979-09-01
The Mountain Home KGRA encompasses an area of 3853 hectares (ha) at the foot of the Mount Bennett Hills in Elmore County, Idaho. The site is associated with an arid climate and high winds that generate an acute dust problem. The KGRA lies adjacent to the northwest-southeast trending fault zone that reflects the northern boundary of the western Snake River Plain graben. Data indicate that a careful analysis of the subsidence potential is needed prior to extensive geothermal development. Surface water resources are confined to several small creeks. Lands are utilized for irrigated farmlands and rangeland for livestock. There aremore » no apparent soil limitations to geothermal development. Sage grouse and mule deer are the major species of concern. The potential of locating significant heritage resources other than the Oregon Trail or the bathhouse debris appears to be relatively slight.« less
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DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Whelan, J.A.
During the summer of 1975, the Department of Geology and Geophysics drilled nine drill thermal gradient/heat flow holes. Total footage drilled was 2125 feet. Seven holes were drilled with a Mayhew 1000 drill using various combinations of down the hole hammer drilling, rotary drilling, and NX diamond core drilling. Three of these were heat flow holes--one in the Mineral Range, one in the Tushar Range near Beaver, Utah, and one near Monroe, Utah. Two were alteration study holes in the Roosevelt KGRA and two were temperature gradient holes, in alluvium in the Roosevelt KGRA. The average depth of the holesmore » drilled with the Mayhew 1000 drill was 247 feet. Holes ranged from 135 feet to 492 feet. Cost per foot averaged $18.53. Two holes were core drilled with a Joy 12, BX-size drill. One was to 75 feet, in perlite. This hole was abandoned. The other was to 323 feet in granite.« less
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DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Elston, W.E.; Deal, E.G.; Logsdon, M.J.
1983-01-01
This circular covers the geology of the Pyramid Peak, Swallow Fork Peak, Table Top Mountain, and South Pyramid Peak 7-1/2-min quadrangles, which include the Lightning Dock KGRA. Hot wells (70 to 115.5/sup 0/C) seem to be structurally controlled by intersections of the ring-fracture zone of an Oligocene ash-flow tuff cauldron (Muir cauldron), a Miocene-to-Holocene north-trending basin-and-range fault (Animas Valley fault), and a northeast-trending lineament that appears to control anomalously heated underground waters and Pliocene-Pleistocene basalt cones in the San Bernardino, San Simon, and Animas Valleys. The Muir cauldron, approximately 20 km in diameter, collapsed in two stages, each associated withmore » the eruption of a rhyolite ash-flow-tuff sheet and of ring-fracture domes. Most of the hydrothermal alteration of the Lightning Dock KGRA is related to the first stage of eruption and collapse, not to the modern geothermal system. Contrary to previous reports, no silicic volcanic rocks younger than basin-and-range faulting are known; unconformities beneath rhyolite ring-fracture domes are caused by Oligocene caldera collapse, not by basin-and-range faulting. The Animas Valley is the site of widespread post-20 My travertine deposits and near-surface veins of calcite, fluorite, and/or psilomelane, controlled by north- or northwest-trending basin-and-range faults. The fluoride-bearing waters of the Lightning Dock KGRA may be a late stage of this hydrothermal activity. Distribution of Pliocene-Pleistocene basalt suggests that deep-seated basalt near the solids may be the ultimate heat source.« less
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DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Matthews, K.M.
1983-07-01
The number of workers currently involved in the various aspects of geothermal development in the Geysers are identified. Using two different development scenarios, projections are made for the number of power plants needed to reach the electrical generation capacity of the steam resource in the Geysers. The report also projects the cumulative number of workers needed to develop the steam field and to construct, operate, and maintain these power plants. Although the number of construction workers fluctuates, most are not likely to become new, permanent residents of the KGRA counties. The administrative and public service costs of geothermal development tomore » local jurisdications are examined, and these costs are compared to geothermal revenues accruing to the local governments. Revenues do not cover the immediate fiscal needs resulting from increases in local road maintenance and school enrollment attributable to geothermal development. Several mitigation options are discussed and a framework presented for calculating mitigation costs for school and road impacts.« less
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The behavior of selected elements found in the Roosevelt Hot Springs KGRA geothermal fluids was investigated in both plant and soil systems. The kinetics of these potential environmental containments were studied by using soil columns and selected cultivated and native plant spec...
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Identification and elemental concentrations of indigenous soil and plant systems found on the Roosevelt Hot Spring KGRA are described. Twenty-three different soils and five separate plant communities are geographically mapped and identified. One hundred forty-seven plant species ...
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Origins of water and solutes in and north of the Norris-Mammoth Corridor, Yellowstone National Park
Kharaka, Yousif; Mariner, Robert; Ambats, Gil; Evans, William; White, Lloyd; Bullen, Thomas; Kennedy, B. Mack
1990-01-01
This study was initiated to investigate the impacts of geothermal development in the Corwin Springs Known Geothermal Resources Area (KGRA) on the hydrothermal features of Yellowstone National Park. To determine possible hydrogeochemical connections, we used the diagnostic stable and radioactive isotopes of several elements, and the chemical and gas compositions of thermal and cold waters from the Norris-Mammoth Corridor and areas north of the Park. The investigations were particularly comprehensive in the Mammoth Hot Springs area, Corwin Springs KGRA, and Chico Hot Springs. The geochemical tools used are still subject to uncertainties of 1 - 5%. Preliminary interpretation of the data, especially the ??D and ??18O values of water, 87Sr/86Sr ratios, ??11B values, composition and isotopes of noble gases and several conservative chemical species would indicate that the waters from Mammoth Hot Springs and La Duke Spring area have evolved chemically and isotopically by reactions with different rock types, and are probably not directly connected. These data indicate that a component (<20%) of water in Bear Creek Springs may be derived from the Mammoth system.
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Low-altitude aeromagnetic survey of a portion of the Coso Hot Springs KGRA, Inyo County, California
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Fox, R.C.
A detailed low-altitude aeromagnetic survey of 576 line-mi (927 line-km) was completed over a portion of the Coso Hot Springs KGRA in September 1977. The survey has defined a pronounced magnetic low that could help delineate the geothermal system. The magnetic low has an areal extent of approximately 10 sq mi (26 sq km). Direct and indirect evidence indicates that this anomaly is due, in part, to magnetite destruction by hydrothermal solutions associated with the geothermal system. The anomaly generally coincides with two other geophysical anomalies which are directly associated with the system: 1) a bedrock electrical resistivity low andmore » 2) an area of relatively high near-surface temperatures. The highest measured heat flow, 18 HFU, also occurs within its boundary. The magnetic low occurs at the intersection of two major structural zones which coincide with a complementary set of strike-slip fault zones determined from seismic activity. The intersection of these two zones of active tectonism probably served as the locus for emplacement of a pluton at depth, above which are observed the coincidental geophysical anomalies and surface manifestations related to the geothermal system.« less
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Interpretation of a seismic refraction profile across the Roosevelt Hot Springs, Utah and vicinity
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Gertson, R.C.; Smith, R.B.
1979-03-01
In April 1977, a seismic refraction profile was recorded across the Milford Valley, the Roosevelt Hot Springs KGRA, and the northern Mineral Mountains in southwestern Utah. Seven shot points were used to provide multiple subsurface seismic refraction coverage along the 30 km east-west profile line. Since an inspection of power spectrums revealed large components of 60 Hz noise on some traces, computer routines were used to low-pass filter all seismograms. Amplitude information was utilized by normalizing all traces that recorded the same blast. Subsurface structural modeling was conducted by means of first arrival P-wave delay-time analysis and ray tracing. Herglotz-Wiechertmore » travel-time inversion was used for the velocity-depth distribution in the Mineral Mountains. The interpretation of the P-wave travel-times suggests that the Milford Valley fill consists of two units with a total thickness of at least 1.8 km. In the vicinity of the Roosevelt KGRA, a thin low velocity alluvial layer covers a basement igneous complex with a velocity of 5.2 km/s. Granite velocities between 3.3 km/s and 4.0 km/s were calculated from the travel-times in the Mineral Mountains.« less
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Geophysical studies of the Crump Geyser known geothermal resource area, Oregon, in 1975
Plouff, Donald
2006-01-01
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) conducted geophysical studies in support of the resource appraisal of the Crump Geyser Known Geothermal Resource Area (KGRA). This area was designated as a KGRA by the USGS, and this designation became effective on December 24, 1970. The land classification standards for a KGRA were established by the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 (Public Law 91-581). Federal lands so classified required competitive leasing for the development of geothermal resources. The author presented an administrative report of USGS geophysical studies entitled 'Geophysical background of the Crump Geyser area, Oregon, KGRA' to a USGS resource committee on June 17, 1975. This report, which essentially was a description of geophysical data and a preliminary interpretation without discussion of resource appraisal, is in Appendix 1. Reduction of sheets or plates in the original administrative report to page-size figures, which are listed and appended to the back of the text in Appendix 1, did not seem to significantly degrade legibility. Bold print in the text indicates where minor changes were made. A colored page-size index and tectonic map, which also show regional geology not shown in figure 2, was substituted for original figure 1. Detailed descriptions for the geologic units referenced in the text and shown on figures 1 and 2 were separately defined by Walker and Repenning (1965) and presumably were discussed in other reports to the committee. Heavy dashed lines on figures 1 and 2 indicate the approximate KGRA boundary. One of the principal results of the geophysical studies was to obtain a gravity map (Appendix 1, fig. 10; Plouff, and Conradi, 1975, pl. 9), which reflects the fault-bounded steepness of the west edge of sediments and locates the maximum thickness of valley sediments at about 10 kilometers south of Crump Geyser. Based on the indicated regional-gravity profile and density-contrast assumptions for the two-dimensional profile, the maximum sediment thickness was estimated at 820 meters. A three-dimensional gravity model would have yielded a greater thickness. Audiomagnotelluric measurements were not made as far south as the location of the gravity low, as determined in the field, due to a lack of communication at that time. A boat was borrowed to collect gravity measurements along the edge of Crump Lake, but the attempt was curtailed by harsh, snowy weather on May 21, 1975, which shortly followed days of hot temperature. Most of the geophysical data and illustrations in Appendix 1 have been published (Gregory and Martinez, 1975; Plouff, 1975; and Plouff and Conradi, 1975), and Donald Plouff (1986) discussed a gravity interpretation of Warner Valley at the Fall 1986 American Geophysical Union meeting in San Francisco. Further interpretation of possible subsurface geologic sources of geophysical anomalies was not discussed in Appendix 1. For example, how were apparent resistivity lows (Appendix 1, figs. 3-6) centered near Crump Geyser affected by a well and other manmade electrically conductive or magnetic objects? What is the geologic significance of the 15-milligal eastward decrease across Warner Valley? The explanation that the two-dimensional gravity model (Appendix 1, fig. 14) was based on an inverse iterative method suggested by Bott (1960) was not included. Inasmuch as there was no local subsurface rock density distribution information to further constrain the gravity model, the three-dimensional methodology suggested by Plouff (1976) was not attempted. Inasmuch as the associated publication by Plouff (1975), which released the gravity data, is difficult to obtain and not in digital format, that report is reproduced in Appendix 2. Two figures of the publication are appended to the back of the text. A later formula for the theoretical value of gravity for the given latitudes at sea level (International Association of Geodesy, 1971) should be used to re-compute gravity anomalies. To merge t
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Gravity Survey of the Rye Patch KGRA, Rye Patch, Nevada
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mcdonald, M. R.; Gosnold, W. D.
2011-12-01
The Rye Patch Known Geothermal Resource Area (KGRA) is located in Pershing County Nevada on the west side of the Humboldt Range and east of the Rye Patch Reservoir approximately 200 km northeast of Reno, Nevada. Previous studies include an earlier gravity survey, 3-D seismic reflection, vertical seismic profiling (VSP) on a single well, 3-D seismic imaging, and a report of the integrated seismic studies. Recently, Presco Energy conducted an aeromagnetic survey and is currently in the process of applying 2-D VSP methods to target exploration and production wells at the site. These studies have indicated that geothermal fluid flow primarily occurs along faults and fractures and that two potential aquifers include a sandstone/siltstone member of the Triassic Natchez Pass Formation and a karst zone that occurs at the interface between Mesozoic limestone and Tertiary volcanics. We hypothesized that addition of a high-resolution gravity survey would better define the locations, trends, lengths, and dip angles of faults and possible solution cavity features. The gravity survey encompassed an area of approximately 78 km2 (30 mi2) within the boundary of the KGRA along with portions of 8 sections directly to the west and 8 sections directly to the east. The survey included 203 stations that were spaced at 400 m intervals. The simple Bouguer anomaly patterns were coincident with elevation, and those patterns remained after terrain corrections were performed. To remove this signal, the data were further processed using wave-length (bandpass) filtering techniques. The results of the filtering and comparison with the recent aeromagnetic survey indicate that the location and trend of major fault systems can be identified using this technique. Dip angles can be inferred by the anomaly contour gradients. By further reductions in the bandpass window, other features such as possible karst solution channels may also be recognizable. Drilling or other geophysical methods such as a magnetotelluric survey may assist in confirming the results. However, lengths of the features were difficult to interpret as the wavelength filtering tends to truncate features in accordance with the bandpass window. Additional gravity measurements would aid in providing higher resolution for the identification and interpretation of features, particularly in the vicinity of the Humboldt House to the north and in an area located to the south of the study area where a large feature was identified in both the aeromagnetic and gravity surveys.
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DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Galbraith, R.M.
1978-05-01
The Coso Geothermal Exploration Hole number one (CGEH-1) was drilled in the Coso Hot Springs KGRA, California, from September 2 to December 2, 1977. Chip samples were collected at ten foot intervals and extensive geophysical logging surveys were conducted to document the geologic character of the geothermal system as penetrated by CGEH-1. The major rock units encountered include a mafic metamorphic sequence and a leucogranite which intruded the metamorphic rocks. Only weak hydrothermal alteration was noted in these rocks. Drillhole surveys and drilling rate data indicate that the geothermal system is structurally controlled and that the drillhole itself was stronglymore » influenced by structural zones. Water chemistry indicates that this geothermal resource is a hot-water rather than a vapor-dominated system. Several geophysical logs were employed to characcterize the drillhole geology. The natural gamma and neutron porosity logs indicate gross rock type and the accoustic logs indicate fractured rock and potentially permeable zones. A series of temperature logs run as a function of time during and after the completion of drilling were most useful in delineating the zones of maximum heat flux. Convective heat flow and temperatures greater than 350/sup 0/F appear to occur only along an open fracture system encountered between depths of 1850 and 2775 feet. Temperature logs indicate a negative thermal gradient below 3000 feet.« less
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Dipole-dipole resistivity survey of a portion of the Coso Hot Springs KGRA, Inyo County, California
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Fox, R.C.
1978-05-01
A detailed electrical resistivity survey of 54 line-km was completed at the Coso Hot Springs KGRA in September 1977. This survey has defined a bedrock resistivity low at least 4 sq mi (10 sq km) in extent associated with the geothermal system at Coso. The boundaries of this low are generally well defined to the north and west but not as well to the south where an approximate southern limit has been determined. The bedrock resistivity low merges with an observed resistivity low over gravel fill east of Coso Hot Springs. A complex horizontal and vertical resistivity structure of themore » surveyed area has been defined which precludes the use of layered-earth or two-dimensional interpretive models for much of the surveyed area. In general the survey data indicate that a 10 to 20 ohm-meter zone extends from near surface to a depth greater than 750 meters within the geothermal system. This zone is bordered to the north and west by bedrock resistivities greater than 200 ohm-meters and to the south by bedrock resistivities greater than 50 ohm-meters. A combination of observed increases in: (1) fracture density (higher permeability), (2) alteration (high clay content), and (3) temperatures (higher dissolved solid content of ground water) within the bedrock low explain its presence.« less
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DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Galbraith, R.M.
1978-05-01
The Coso Geothermal Exploration Hole number one (CGEH-1) was drilled in the Coso Hot Springs KGRA, California from September 2 to December 2, 1977. Chip samples were collected at ten foot intervals and extensive geophysical logging surveys were conducted to document the geologic character of the geothermal system as penetrated by CGEH-1. The major rock units encountered include a mafic metamorphic sequence and a leucogranite which intruded the metamorphic rocks. Only weak hydrothermal alteration was noted in these rocks. Drillhole surveys and drilling rate data indicate that the geothermal system is structurally controlled and that the drillhole itself was stronglymore » influenced by structural zones. Water chemistry indicates that this geothermal resource is a hot-water rather than a vapor-dominated system. Several geophysical logs were employed to characterize the drillhole geology. The natural gamma and neutron porosity logs indicate gross rock type and the acoustic logs indicate fractured rock and potentially permeable zones. A series of temperature logs run as a function of time during and after the completion of drilling were most useful in delineating the zones of maximum heat flux. Convective heat flow and temperatures greater than 350/sup 0/F appear to occur only along an open fracture system encountered between depths of 1850 and 2775 feet. Temperature logs indicate a negative thermal gradient below 3000 feet.« less
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DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Neupane, Ghanashyam; McLing, Travis; Mattson, Earl
The presented database includes water chemistry data and structural rating values for various geothermal features used for performing principal component (PC) and cluster analyses work to identify promising KGRAs and IHRAs in southern Idaho and southeastern Oregon. A brief note on various KGRAs/IHRAs is also included herewith. Results of PC and cluster analyses are presented as a separate paper (Lindsey et al., 2017) that is, as of the time of this submission, in 'revision' status.
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Three-dimensional Q -1 model of the Coso Hot Springs Known Geothermal Resource Area
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Young, Chi-Yuh; Ward, Ronald W.
1980-05-01
Observations of teleseismic P waves above geothermal systems exhibit travel time delays and anomalously high seismic attenuation, which is extremely useful in estimating the thermal regime and the potential of the system. A regional telemetered network of sixteen stations was operated by the U.S. Geological Survey in the Coso Hot Springs Known Geothermal Resources Area (KGRA) for such studies from September 1975 to October 1976. Subsequently, they deployed a portable Centipede array of 26 three-component stations near the center of the anomaly. The seismograms of 44 events recorded by the telemetered array and nine events by the Centipede array were analyzed using the reduced spectral ratio technique to determine the differential attenuation factor δt* for the events recorded with the highest signal-to-noise ratio. The δt* variation observed across the Coso Hot Springs KGRA were small (<0.2 s). A three-dimensional generalized linear inversion of the δt* observations was performed using a three-layer model. A shallow zone of high attenuation exists within the upper 5 km in a region bounded by Coso Hot Springs, Devils Kitchen, and Sugarloaf Mountain probably corresponding to a shallow vapor liquid mixture or `lossy' near surface lithology. No zones of significantly high attenuation occur between 5- and 12- km depth. Between the depth of 12-20 km a thick zone of high attenuation (Q <50) exists, offset toward the east from the surface anomaly.
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CABALLO AND POLVADERA ROADLESS AREAS, NEW MEXICO.
Manley, Kim; Lane, Michael
1984-01-01
A mineral-resource survey has been conducted for the Caballo and Polvadera Roadless Areas, Los Alamos and Rio Arriba Counties, New Mexico. The rocks in the study areas are chiefly volcanic with minor volcaniclastic sedimentary rocks. There is little promise for the occurrence of mineral or fossil fuel resources in the areas. There has been no mining activity within the roadless areas and chemical analyses of stream-sediment samples show no significant anomalous concentrations of metals. There has been some interest in geothermal resources near the Polvadera Roadless Area and a KGRA (Known Geothermal Resource Area) extends into the southwestern corner of the area. This area has been classified as having probable geothermal-resource potential.
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Geothermal resources in Oregon: site data base and development status
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Justus, D.L.
An inventory of resources based on available information is presented. Potential for utilization and the legal and institutional environment in which development is likely to occur were also considered. Sites selected for this investigation include the 13 identified KGRA's, one PGRA which was chosen because of substantial local interest expressed in favor of development, and one major geologic fault zone which shows indications of high potential. Each chapter represents a planning region and is introduced by a regional overview of the physical setting followed by a narrative summary statement of the specific resource location and characteristics, existing utilization and potentialmore » end-uses for future development. Detailed site information in the form of data sheets follows each narrative. (MHR)« less
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Richter, Donlad H.; Klein, Douglas P.; Lawrence, Viki A.; Lane, Michael
1982-01-01
The mineral resource potential of the Gila-San Francisco Wilderness Study Area (AZ-040-022/023/024) is low (fig. 2). Although favorable geologic environments for placer gold deposits and manganese vein deposits are present in the study area, the probability of discovering economically exploitable deposits of these metals is low, and not encouraging. Even more speculative is the study area's porphyry copper potential which is based solely on the possibility of favorable host terranes underlying the study area at depth. The study area does contain substantial deposits of pumice, but their economic significance is probably minor. A part of the study area has been previously designated a Known Geothermal Resource Area (KGRA).
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DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Halliday, M.E.; Cook, K.L.
Regional gravity data were collected in portions of the Pavant Range, Tushar Mountains, northern Sevier Plateau, the Antelope Range, and throughout Sevier Valley approximately between the towns of Richfield and Junction, Utah. Additionally, detailed gravity and ground magnetic data were collected in the vicinity of hot springs in both the Monroe and Joseph Known Geothermal Resource Areas (KGRA's) and subsurface geologic models were constructed. The regional gravity data were terrain corrected out to a distance of 167 km from the station and 948 gravity station values were compiled into a complete Bouguer gravity anomaly map of the survey area. Thismore » map shows a strong correlation with most structural features mapped in the survey area. Four regional gravity profiles were modeled using two-dimensional formerd and inverse algorithms.« less
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Environmental Assessment Lakeview Geothermal Project
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Treis, Tania
2012-04-30
The Town of Lakeview is proposing to construct and operate a geothermal direct use district heating system in Lakeview, Oregon. The proposed project would be in Lake County, Oregon, within the Lakeview Known Geothermal Resources Area (KGRA). The proposed project includes the following elements: Drilling, testing, and completion of a new production well and geothermal water injection well; construction and operation of a geothermal production fluid pipeline from the well pad to various Town buildings (i.e., local schools, hospital, and Lake County Industrial Park) and back to a geothermal water injection well. This EA describes the proposed project, the alternativesmore » considered, and presents the environmental analysis pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act. The project would not result in adverse effects to the environment with the implementation of environmental protection measures.« less
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MOUNT HOOD WILDERNESS AND ADJACENT AREAS, OREGON.
Keith, T.E.C.; Causey, J.D.
1984-01-01
A mineral survey of the Mount Hood Wilderness, Oregon, was conducted. Geochemical data indicate two areas of substantiated mineral-resource potential containing weak epithermal mineralization: an area of the north side of Zigzag Mountain where vein-type lead-zinc-silver deposits occur and an area of the south side of Zigzag Mountain, where the upper part of a quartz diorite pluton has propylitic alteration associated with mineralization of copper, gold, silver, lead, and zinc in discontinuous veins. Geothermal-resource potential for low- to intermediate-temperature (less than 248 degree F) hot-water systems in the wilderness is probable in these areas. Part of the wilderness is classified as a Known Geothermal Resource Area (KGRA), which is considered to have probable geothermal-resource potential, and two parts of the wilderness have been included in geothermal lease areas.
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DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Icerman, L.; Starkey, A.; Trentman, N.
1981-08-01
Magnetic, gravity, seismic-refraction, and seismic-reflection profiles across the Las Alturas Geothermal Anomaly, New Mexico, are presented. Studies in the Socorro area include the following: seismic measurements of the tertiary fill in the Rio Grande Depression west of Socorro, geothermal data availability for computer simulation in the Socorro Peak KGRA, and ground water circulation in the Socorro Geothermal Area. Regional geothermal exploration in the Truth or Consequences Area includes: geological mapping of the Mud Springs Mountains, hydrogeology of the thermal aquifer, and electrical-resistivity investigation of the geothermal potential. Other studies included are: geothermal exploration with electrical methods near Vado, Chamberino, andmore » Mesquite; a heat-flow study of Dona Ana County; preliminary heat-flow assessment of Southeast Luna County; active fault analysis and radiometric dating of young basalts in southern New Mexico; and evaluation of the geothermal potential of the San Juan Basin in northwestern New Mexico.« less
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DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Serpa, L.F.; Cook, K.L.
Aeromagnetic and gravity surveys were conducted during 1978 in the Black Rock Desert, Utah over an area of about 2400 km/sup 2/ between the north-trending Pavant and Cricket Mountains. The surveys assisted in evaluating the geothermal resources in the Meadow-Hatton Known Geothermal Resource Area (KGRA) and vicinity by delineating geophysical characteristics of the subsurface. The gravity measurements from approximately 700 new stations were reduced to complete Bouguer gravity anomaly values with the aid of a computerized terrain-correction program and contoured at an interval of 1 milligal. The aeromagnetic survey was drape flown at an altitude of 305 m (1000 ft)more » and a total intensity residual aeromagnetic map with a contour interval of 20 gammas was produced. Two gravity and aeromagnetic east-west profiles and one north-south profile were modeled using a simultaneous 2 1/2-dimensional modeling technique to provide a single model satisfying both types of geophysical data.« less
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Exploration criteria for low permeability geothermal resources. Final report. [Coso KGRA
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Norton, D.
1977-10-01
Low permeability geothermal systems related to high temperature plutons in the upper crust were analyzed in order to ascertain those characteristics of these systems which could be detected by surface and shallow subsurface exploration methods. Analyses were designed to integrate data and concepts from the literature, which relate to the transport processes, together with computer simulation of idealized systems. The systems were analyzed by systematically varying input parameters in order to understand their effect on the variables which might be measured in an exploration-assessment program. The methods were applied to a prospective system in its early stages of evaluation. Datamore » from the Coso system were used. The study represents a first-order approximation to transport processes in geothermal systems, which consist of high temperature intrusions, host rock, and fluids. Included in an appendix are operations procedures for interactive graphics programs developed during the study. (MHR)« less
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Audio-magnetotelluric methods in reconnaissance geothermal exploration
Hoover, D.B.; Long, C.L.
1976-01-01
and 18 600 Hz where artificial VLF sources are available. As a reconnaissance technique we use AMT surveys in conjunction with regional gravity, magnetic, and telluric surveys. The exploration depth is a function of the resistivities of the lithologic section, but typically ranges from the surface to 0.2 km in low-resistivity areas and to greater than 2 km in high-resistivity regions. Results of the initial reconnaissance AMT surveys provide a rational basis for deciding on the extent of costlier follow-up surveys. As part of the U.S. Geological Survey geothermal program, surveys were conducted in Long Valley and Surprise Valley, California; the Vale, Ore-Weiser, Idaho region; and Bruneau-Grand View, Raft River, and Island Park regions of Idaho. AMT surveys in five additional known geothermal resource areas (KGRA's) have been scheduled for completion by May 1975. In the Raft River and Bruneau-Grand View regions and Long Valley, follow-up electrical surveys substantiated the effectiveness of the AMT technique for reconnaissance surveying.
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Cumulative biological impacts of The Geysers geothermal development
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Brownell, J.A.
1981-10-01
The cumulative nature of current and potential future biological impacts from full geothermal development in the steam-dominated portion of The Geysers-Calistoga KGRA are identified by the California Energy Commission staff. Vegetation, wildlife, and aquatic resources information have been reviewed and evaluated. Impacts and their significance are discussed and staff recommendations presented. Development of 3000 MW of electrical energy will result in direct vegetation losses of 2790 acres, based on an estimate of 11.5% loss per lease-hold of 0.93 acres/MW. If unmitigated, losses will be greater. Indirect vegetation losses and damage occur from steam emissions which contain elements (particularly boron) toxicmore » to vegetation. Other potential impacts include chronic low-level boron exposure, acid rain, local climate modification, and mechanical damage. A potential exists for significant reduction and changes in wildlife from direct habitat loss and development influences. Highly erosive soils create the potential for significant reduction of aquatic resources, particularly game fish. Toxic spills have caused some temporary losses of aquatic species. Staff recommends monitoring and implementation of mitigation measures at all geothermal development stages.« less
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DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Ross, H.P.
The Cove Fort-Sulphurdale Known Geothermal Resource Area (KGRA) is located near the junction of the Pavant Range and the Tushar Mountains in south-central Utah. The area has been the site of an intensive geothermal exploration effort since 1975. The electrical resistivity data obtained by Union Oil Company and a subsequent survey conducted for the Earth Science Laboratory and a detailed numerical interpretation of both data sets are presented. The detailed modeling permits a characterization of the intrinsic electrical resistivity to depths exceeding 2000 feet. An area of over two square miles with bulk in-situ resistivities of four-to-five ohm-m is delineatedmore » at Sulphurdale near the Union Oil Co. well CFSU No. 42-7. The low-resistivities rocks define the area of extensive hydrothermal alteration in response to the presence of clay minerals and conductive thermal fluids. In contrast the area north and east of Cove Fort is typified by high (100-300 ohm-m) resistivities to depths exceeding 2000 feet. This is an area of Cretaceous and Paleozoic sedimentary rocks where two attempts to drill to reservoir depth failed because of extreme drilling problems. The high resistivities are not considered encouraging for the presence of a deeper reservoir. The electrical resistivity interpretation has defined several areas of probable upward migration of thermal fluids along north-trending normal faults. Some of these areas may have potential for direct heat geothermal utilization.« less
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Heat flow in relation to hydrothermal activity in the southern Black Rock Desert, Nevada
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Sass, J.H.; Zoback, M.L.; Galanis, S.P. Jr.
1979-01-01
As part of an investigation of the Gerlach NE KGRA (Known Geothermal Resource Area) a number of heat-flow measurements were made in playa sediments of the southern Black Rock Desert, northwestern Nevada. These data together with additional previously unpublished heat-flow values reveal a complex pattern of heat flow with values ranging between 1.0 to 5.0 HFU (40 to 100 mWm/sup -2/) outside of the hot springs area. The mean heat flow for the 13 reported sites in the southern Black Rock Desert is 1.8 +- 0.15 HFU (75 +- 6 mWm/sup -2/). The complexity of the pattern of heat flowmore » is believed to arise from hydrothermal circulation supporting the numerous hot springs throughout the region. The fact that the lowest observed heat flow occurs in the deepest part of the basin strongly suggests that fluid movement within the basin represents part of the recharge for the hydrothermal system. A thermal balance for the system incorporating both anomalous conductive heat loss and convective heat loss from the spring systems indicate a total energy loss of about 8.0 Mcal/sec or 34 megawatts over an estimated 1000 km/sup 2/ region. Consideration of this additional heat loss yields a mean regional heat flow of 2.5 + HFU (100 + mWm/sup -2/) and warrants inclusion of this region in the Battle Mountain heat-flow high (Lachenbruch and Sass, 1977, 1978).« less
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DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Elston, W.E.
1981-07-01
Results are reported of geologic mapping of geothermal anomalies in the Gila Hot Springs KGRA/Mimbres Hot Springs area, Grant County. They suggest that both hot-spring occurrences are structurally controlled by the intersection of a major Basin and Range fault and the disturbed margin of an ash-flow tuff cauldron. Hydrothermal alteration in both areas is related to mid-Tertiary volcanism, not to modern hot springs. At Gila Hot Springs, the geothermal aquifer is a zone at the contact between the unwelded top of a major ash-flow tuff sheet (Bloodgood Canyon Rhyolite Tuff) and a succession of interlayered vesicular basaltic andesite flows andmore » thin sandstone beds (Bearwallow Mountain Formation). Scattered groups of natural hot springs occur at intersections of this zone and the faults bordering the northeastern side of the Gila Hot Springs graben. Hydrothermal alteration of Bloodgood Canyon Rhyolite Tuff near major faults seems to have increased its permeability. At Mimbres Hot Springs, a single group of hot springs is controlled by the intersection of the Mimbres Hot Springs fault and a fractured welded ash-flow tuff that fills the Emory cauldron (Kneeling Nun Tuff). Gila Hot Springs and Mimbres Hot Springs do not seem to be connected by throughgoing faults. At both localities, hot spring water is used locally for space heating and domestic hot water; at Gila Hot Springs, water of 65.6/sup 0/C (150/sup 0/F) is used to generate electricity by means of a 10 kw freon Rankine Cycle engine. This is the first such application in New Mexico.« less
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DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Brumbaugh, William D.; Cook, Kenneth L.
During the summers of 1975 and 1976, a gravity survey was conducted in the Cove Fort - Sulphurdale KGRA and north Mineral Mountains area, Millard and Beaver counties, Utah. The survey consisted of 671 gravity stations covering an area of about 1300 km{sup 2}, and included two orthogonal gravity profiles traversing the area. The gravity data are presented as a terrain-corrected Bouguer gravity anomaly map with a contour interval of 1 mgal and as an isometric three-dimensional gravity anomaly surface. Selected anomaly separation techniques were applied to the hand-digitized gravity data (at 1-km intervals on the Universal Transverse Mercator grid)more » in both the frequency and space domains, including Fourier decomposition, second vertical derivative, strike-filter, and polynomial fitting analysis, respectively. Residual gravity gradients of 0.5 to 8.0 mgal/km across north-trending gravity contours observed through the Cove Fort area, the Sulphurdale area, and the areas east of the East Mineral Mountains, along the west flanks of the Tushar Mountains, and on both the east and west flanks of the north Mineral Mountains, were attributed to north-trending Basin and Range high-angle faults. Gravity highs exist over the community of Black Rock area, the north Mineral Mountains, the Paleozoic outcrops in the east Cove Creek-Dog Valley-White Sage Flats areas, the sedimentary thrust zone of the southern Payant Range, and the East Mineral Mountains. The gravity lows over north Milford Valley, southern Black Rock Desert, Cunningham Wash, and northern Beaver Valley are separated from the above gravity highs by steep gravity gradients attributed to a combination of crustal warping and faulting. A gravity low with a closure of 2 mgal corresponds with Sulphur Cove, a circular topographic features containing sulphur deposits.« less
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Gunion - Nevada`s most innovative geothermal food dehydration facility
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Trexler, D.T.; Taylan, G.; Stewart, M.B.
1995-12-31
The Gunion (garlic and onion) dehydration plant, owned and operated by Integrated Ingredients, a Division of Burns Philp Food, Incorporated, uses geothermal fluids at a temperature of 306{degrees}F to dehydrate 50 to 70-thousand pounds per day of garlic and onions. The geothermal fluids are provided by Empire Farms, who has the rights for development of the resource and is the lease holder of fee land known as the Kosmos Lease. The San Emidio KGRA is located in northern Washoe County, 90 miles north-northeast of Reno, Nevada and 20 miles south of Gerlach, Nevada. Geothermal fluids exit the plant at 242{degrees}Fmore » and are piped to an injection well located 3,000 feet south-southwest of the plant. The plant location was selected not only for the geothermal resource, but also for the area`s low relative humidity. Currently, 1100-1200 gpm of geothermal fluids, at an inlet temperature of 302{degrees}F, are sufficient to provide the dryer line with ample BTU`s. Three geothermal wells drilled to depths ranging from 493 to 1817 feet produce fluids ranging in temperature from 266 to 306{degrees}F. One well can easily provide the heat required by the dryer line and will be capable of providing heat for a planned three-fold expansion of the facility. The remaining two wells are used as backup, or may be used for other applications such as soil sterilization. The fluid exiting the plant at 242{degrees}F may be cascaded and used for greenhouses and soil warming in the future. Geothermal heat is also used to dehumidify onions placed in the cold storage facility. The dehydration process takes 5-6 hours to dry the product to a 4.5% moisture content. The dried product is then milled to various sizes from powder to granules. The dehydration plant operates 24 hours/day 7 days a week. Currently 80 people are employed full-time at the plant. The dehydrated onion and garlic are used in condiments, soups, sauces and salad dressing.« less
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The Preston Geothermal Resources; Renewed Interest in a Known Geothermal Resource Area
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Wood, Thomas R.; Worthing, Wade; Cannon, Cody
2015-01-01
The Preston Geothermal prospect is located in northern Cache Valley approximately 8 kilometers north of the city of Preston, in southeast Idaho. The Cache Valley is a structural graben of the northern portion of the Basin and Range Province, just south of the border with the Eastern Snake River Plain (ESRP). This is a known geothermal resource area (KGRA) that was evaluated in the 1970's by the State of Idaho Department of Water Resources (IDWR) and by exploratory wells drilled by Sunedco Energy Development. The resource is poorly defined but current interpretations suggest that it is associated with the Cachemore » Valley structural graben. Thermal waters moving upward along steeply dipping northwest trending basin and range faults emanate in numerous hot springs in the area. Springs reach temperatures as hot as 84° C. Traditional geothermometry models estimated reservoir temperatures of approximately 125° C in the 1970’s study. In January of 2014, interest was renewed in the areas when a water well drilled to 79 m (260 ft) yielded a bottom hole temperature of 104° C (217° F). The well was sampled in June of 2014 to investigate the chemical composition of the water for modeling geothermometry reservoir temperature. Traditional magnesium corrected Na-K-Ca geothermometry estimates this new well to be tapping water from a thermal reservoir of 227° C (440° F). Even without the application of improved predictive methods, the results indicate much higher temperatures present at much shallower depths than previously thought. This new data provides strong support for further investigation and sampling of wells and springs in the Northern Cache Valley, proposed for the summer of 2015. The results of the water will be analyzed utilizing a new multicomponent equilibrium geothermometry (MEG) tool called Reservoir Temperature Estimate (RTEst) to obtain an improved estimate of the reservoir temperature. The new data suggest that other KGRAs and overlooked areas may need to be investigated using improved geothermal exploration methods.« less