| Abstract |
The year 1984 saw two federal units created in Oregon, where before there were none. In addition, a third unit is being proposed at Newberry volcano. Units allow competing interests to work together and resources to be explored and developed in an efficient manner. In addition, certain benefits accrue to both the lessee and lessor. Much of the Oregon Cascade mountain range, managed by the US Forest Service, has been leased for geothermal resources. However, unitization occurred on these lands only in 1984. Significant exploration expenditures and drilling will now be forthcoming, based on the obligations of the unit operators. Should either of these units yield a commercial resource, geothermal power generation in the Pacific Northwest may become a near term reality. |