| Abstract |
The Moana geothermal area is the largest single low to moderate temperature geothermal resource in the State of Nevada presently employed for direct use applications,. Approximately 150 individual wells, representing a total estimated investment of $5 to $7 million, are presently used to provide heat and hot water to more that 130 private residence, several churches and two large motels. Although most of the wells are constructed to meet the heating needs of individual homes, a large scale district space heating system, designed to supply heat to 60 houses forma single well, is now being developed. Usable temperature range from 50° to 99°C (120°F to 210°F) well depths range from 60 to 400 me (100 to 1300 ft). the number of new wells coming online in Moana is two to three per month. Development of the resources has been largely unregulated and questions dealing with reported reservoir temperate and water level declines, loss of artesian flow, and fluid disposal have recently surfaced. In October 1982, a geologic and hydrologic research program began that was designed to provide detailed geothermal reservoir data to present or prospective developers. The program combines geophysical, geochemical, and geological surveys of the Moana resource area with a drilling program for 5 monitor/observation wells. Data from this program are supplied directly to developers as well as state and local government agencies to provide for prudent resource development. This paper summarizes the program elements and describes the present status. |