Geothermal district space heating has been practiced in Boise over the last 85 years. The system has used two wells drilled approximately 50 f t (15 m) apart in the early 1890s. The wells have a combined maximum reported production rate of 1800 gpm (114 l/sec) at 170?F (77?C) discharge at the wellhead. The system has served as many as 400 homes and Natatorium; presently it serves approximately 200 homes and a large state laboratory and office building.

The heating district remained at the present capacity (two wells) for 85 years primarily because of the unknown nature of the reservoir and availability of other energy sources. Not until 1974 was the question of further development given serious consideration, Rising energy costs due to expanding energy demands and higher costs for foreign oil brought about a reevaluation of the resource. The INEL, Boise State University, and the Idaho Bureau of Mines and Geology began an investigation into the nature of the resource and the economics of space heating several large buildings and homes. Two deep, approximately 1250 f t (381 m ), exploratory wells were drilled and tested by the INEL to determine the nature and size of the reservoir. Drilling and reservoir engineering test results have confirined the presence of a large reservoir that can be developed further without adversely effecting the two production wells and heating system now in operation.

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