An Exploration Overview

Abstract

The geothermal power potential of the Cascade Range continues to be an enigma. Due to the dynamic surficial geohydrology and lack of deep drilling there is little "data" available from which to predict anticipated size, temperatures, and quality of the hydrothermal systems associated with young volcanoes of the High Cascades. The surficial hydrology precludes the use of shallow heat flow surveys for identification of high temperatures at depth. The absence of hot springs in most of the areas of highest probably heat prohibits the use of geothermometry in prediction of regional potential. The geothermometry of hot springs which occur in older rocks on the flanks of the Cascade Range can probably be considered irrelevant to the high temperatures which can be anticipated to be associated with the young volcanoes in the High Cascades.