A Mixing-Cell Model of the Hydrothermal Flow System, Northern Dixie Valley, Nevada
- Key words
- Exploration; Reservoir Engineering; USA; Nevada; Dixie Valley; Deuterium; Isotopes; Geologic Models; Temperature; Aquifer; Ground Water; Hydrology; Precipitation; Reservoir Models; Springs; Surface Waters; Thermal Springs; Meteoric Waters; Modeling; Water
- Location
- Dixie Valley, Nevada
- Conference
- Geothermal Resources Council Transactions
- Year
- 1988
- Session
- Exploration; Reservoir modeling; Hydrogeology; Computer mode
- Language
- English
Abstract
The spatial distribution of the stable isotope deuterium is used to calibrate a three dimensional steady state mixing cell flow model of the northern half of the Dixie Valley groundwater flow system, west central Nevada. The flow system is subdivided into 15 mixing cells: a lower tier of 3 cells and an upper tier of 12 cells, which simulate the thermal and nonthermal systems, respectively. The model delineates general circulation patterns for resident thermal and nonthermal waters, many of which were consistent with previous studies. The model also provides estimates of annual recharge to the entire flow system (17.0 x 10/6 m3/yr) vertical movement of thermal waters ( 5.6 x 10/6 m3/yr), groundwater mean ages (4,300-19,500 yrs) and storage volumes. Major recharge areas for the study region are located in Pleasant Valley and northern Dixie Valley.
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