The Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) compiled a database of 2,193 thermal wells and springs, an increase of 87% over the 1982 compilation (Black, 1994). These thermal wells and springs may represent more than 200 resource areas. The study concluded that the entire state east of the Cascade Range, except for the crest of the Wallowa Mountains, was favorable for the discovery at shallow depth (< 1,000 m) for thermal water of sufficient temperature for direct-heat applications. Thermal fluids of 89 to 99°C are used for district heating systems in Klamath Falls. Other uses include space heating at a large number of sites, greenhouse heating, aquaculture, and resorts/spas. Five areas have been recommended for high priority studies to support near-term utilization of thermal fluids. Geophysical studies to define faults and a district heating feasibility study are recommended for one area. Feasibility studies are recommended to assess the economics for space heating, greenhouse heating, and aquaculture projects at four other areas.
Black, G., 1994. Low-Temperature Geothermal Database for Oregon, Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries, Technical Report to Oregon Institute of Technology, Geo-Heat Center, 11p.