Discovery of the energy asset came through a recently completed national database, created with the help of Idaho researchers.
A University of Idaho survey team spent several years compiling some 7,000 records to contribute to the National Geothermal Data System on behalf of the Gem State. The data system was commissioned by the U.S. Department of Energy to compile all forms of data related to geothermal energy.
“Each state’s geological survey combed through it’s records and the records of other agencies for anything relevant to the exploration, development, research or utilization of geothermal heat,” UI research geologist and GRC Member John Welhan said. “It spanned the gamut from recreational uses to greenhouse warming to complex high-temperature heating systems.”
While compiling Idaho’s data points, UI researchers discovered documents from the 1970s and 1980s regarding oil and gas drilling in the Blackfoot and Soda Springs area. No petroleum products were found, but the drilling did reveal large underground springs. The pockets are spread over 200 square miles and range from 8,000 to 13,000 feet deep. The water temperature is 300 to 400 degrees.
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