Resource investigation of low- and moderate-temperature geothermal areas in Paso Robles, California
Ninety-eight geothermal wells and springs were identified and plotted, and a geologic map and cross sections were compiled. Detailed geophysical, geochemical, and geological surveys were conducted. The geological and geophysical work delineated the basement highs and trough-like depressions that can exercise control on the occurrence of the thermal waters. The Rinconada fault was also evident. Cross sections drawn from oil well logs show the sediments conforming against these basement highs and filling the depressions. It is along the locations where the sediments meet the basement highs that three natural warm springs in the area occur. Deep circulation of meteoric waters along faults seems to be a reasonable source for the warm water. The Santa Margarita, Pancho Rico, and Paso Robles Formations would be the first permeable zones that abut the faults through which water would enter. Temperatures and interpretation of well logs indicate the warmest aquifer at the base of the Paso Robles Formation. Warm water may be entering higher up in the section, but mixing with water from cooler zones seems to be evident. Geothermometry indicates reservoir temperatures could be as high as 91/sup 0/C (196/sup 0/F).
- Research Organization:
- California State Dept. of Conservation, Sacramento (USA). Div. of Mines and Geology
- DOE Contract Number:
- FG03-80SF10855
- OSTI ID:
- 6507764
- Report Number(s):
- DOE/SF/10855-T2; ON: DE84016519
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Geophysical survey, Paso Robles Geothermal area, California: Part of the Resource Assessment of Low- and Moderate-Temperature Geothermal Resource Areas in California; Part of the Second year Report, 1979-80 of the US Department of Energy-California State-Coupled Program for Reservoir Assessment and Confirmation
Geophysical survey, Paso Robles geothermal area, California, part of the resource assessment of low- and moderate-temperature geothermal resource areas in California
Related Subjects
150301* -- Geothermal Exploration & Exploration Technology-- Geophysical Techniques & Surveys
150302 -- Geothermal Exploration & Exploration Technology-- Geochemical Techniques & Surveys
CALIFORNIA
ELECTRICAL SURVEYS
EXPLORATION
FEDERAL REGION IX
GEOCHEMICAL SURVEYS
GEOLOGICAL SURVEYS
GEOPHYSICAL SURVEYS
GEOTHERMAL EXPLORATION
GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES
GEOTHERMAL WELLS
GRAVITY SURVEYS
Geothermal Legacy
HYDROLOGY
MAGNETIC SURVEYS
MAPS
NORTH AMERICA
RESISTIVITY SURVEYS
RESOURCE ASSESSMENT
RESOURCES
SEISMICITY
SURVEYS
THERMAL SPRINGS
USA
WATER SPRINGS
WELLS