| Title | Geothermal Exploration at Newberry Volcano, Central Oregon |
|---|---|
| Authors | Waibel, Albert F.; Frone, Zachary; Jaffe, Todd |
| Year | 2012 |
| Conference | Geothermal Resources Council Transactions |
| Keywords | Newberry Volcano; geophysical exploration; DOE Grant 109 program |
| Abstract | Data generated by Davenport Newberry, including surveys conducted in conjunction with the DOE Innovative Exploration Technologies “Grant 109 program”, and detailed geologic mapping performed by the U.S. Geological Survey, are being used to better understand the geology, volcanic history and geothermal potential of Newberry Volcano. Currently Davenport Newberry is mid-way through the exploration program, which will include additional temperature gradient wells. The information reported here is an interim view of a work in progress. The western flank of the volcano is underlain by plutons associated with Newberry Volcano, some of which are young enough to still be quite hot. Two deep exploration wells have been drilled by Davenport Newberry, 55-29 and 46-16. 55-29 intersected extensive fracturing that was isolated and had no evidence of hydrothermal activity, and is currently the center of EGS development. 46-16 intersected open fractures hosting hydrothermal fluid and has a sustained discharge of non-condensable gasses associated with hydrothermal fluid. A bridge at approximately 5,000 ft. in 46-16 has precluded flow-testing of the well. Microearthquakes under the western flank show that there is on-going brittle rock breakage taking place. The first of two micro-seismic surveys are indicating areas with a consistent linear and vertical geometry of continuous noise that may be related to vertical fluid movement. The combination of traditional and innovative exploration tools and the integration of insight from each field of expertise into team-balanced modeling have led to the advances in understanding of Newberry Volcano and of how to explore more effectively for both traditional hydrothermal and EGS geothermal resources. The final integrated model of Newberry Volcano and development of geothermal resources will be completed after the additional temperature gradient data become available. |