| Title | Gravity Modeling of the Rye Patch Known Geothermal Resource Area, Rye Patch, Nevada |
|---|---|
| Authors | McDonald, Mark R.; Gosnold, William D. |
| Year | 2014 |
| Conference | Geothermal Resources Council Transactions |
| Keywords | Rye Patch; gravity; modeling; geophysics; exploration |
| Abstract | A gravity survey was conducted at the Rye Patch Known Geothermal Resource Area located at Rye Patch, Nevada. The purpose of the study was to attempt to further delineate the geothermal reservoir and/or to identify potential drilling targets. The survey consisted of collecting data at 264 new stations to augment data from 203 stations collected in 2008. Information from previous seismic, aeromagnetic and geochemical investigations was also examined and incorporated. After filtering the data to remove the strong regional overprint caused by the large density contrast between the low density alluvium within the valley versus the near-surface higher density rock in the higher elevations, 2-D models were created across three profiles. Based on estimates arrived at by using 2nd derivative methods, fault dip angles are on the order of 80o and are consistent with previous conceptual models of the site. The modeling indicates that there are a series of parallel normal faults within the valley and that the fault blocks appear to be rotated back to the east creating a series of sub-basins within the valley. |