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Gravity and magnetic studies of the Geysers-Clear Lake geothermal region, California, USA

January 1, 1976

Gravity and magnetic fields in The Geysers-Clear Lake region are interpreted in relation to the known geology and other available geophysical data. New gravity data provide additional detail with the area of geothermal steam production. Computer techniques were used for removal of the regional gravity field, anomaly enhancement, and modeling subsurface structures. The gravity field was separated into three components: (1) a regional field presumed to be due to deep crustal structure related to the continental margin; (2) a residual gravity low of approximately 30 mgal centered over Mount Hannah and having an approximate diameter of 20 km, which is caused, according to our model, by a magma chamber whose top lies within 10 km of the surface; and (3) a closed residual low over the original steam production field. This low is probably related to effects within 1.5 km of the surface and was modeled as a steam-saturated reservoir structure. Local magnetic highs correlate with surface outcrops of serpentinite and relief on the volcanic rocks. Upward continuation of the aeromagnetic data suggests that the serpentinite body along the Collayomi fault may extend to a depth of more than 3 km near Boggs Mountain, but that other serpentinite bodies are probably more shallow. A long-wavelength magnetic high (centered at ~39°03'N 122°33'W) and a magnetic low (centered at ~38&deg:43'N 122°47'W) give half-width depth estimates of about 10 km. The center of the Mount Hannah gravity low lies in an area between these features and appears devoid of deep magnetic expression.

Publication Year 1976
Title Gravity and magnetic studies of the Geysers-Clear Lake geothermal region, California, USA
Authors William F. Isherwood
Publication Type Conference Paper
Publication Subtype Conference Paper
Index ID 70043031
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization Energy Resources Program