Stepovers and beyond: Structural control of The Geysers geothermal system and the broader Clear Lake region

By:

Links

Abstract

Fault geometry exerts a first-order control on geothermal systems by governing stress localization, fracture development, and permeability, yet in complex fault networks or broader shear zones, the relative influence of individual geometric features is often difficult to resolve. In the northern California Coast Ranges, The Geysers geothermal field is commonly interpreted to occur within a releasing stepover, although no single, clearly defined stepover is identified in published studies. To investigate the structural controls on The Geysers and the broader Clear Lake region, a two-dimensional elastic boundary element model is developed to evaluate spatial patterns of dilational strain associated with progressively more complete fault geometries. Model results show that dilation in the region is not controlled by a single structure but instead reflects the combined effects of multiple interacting fault elements. Three primary controls are identified: (1) opposing bends in the regional strike-slip fault system, including a releasing bend along the Maacama fault; (2) the southern fault tip of the Collayomi fault, which generates a prominent dilational lobe beneath the southern Geysers; and (3) a releasing stepover between the Collayomi fault and the Geyser Peak–Mercuryville–Big Sulphur Creek fault system, inferred to collectively behave as a right-lateral shear zone bounding the western margin of The Geysers. Predicted dilational strain magnitudes are sufficient to localize permeability between faults. These results highlight that incorporating complete fault networks and bedrock geological mapping can enhance geothermal assessments and provide a transferable framework for evaluating structurally controlled permeability in tectonically active regions. 

Suggested Citation

Melosh, B.L., 2026, Stepovers and beyond: Structural control of The Geysers geothermal system and the broader Clear Lake region, 51st Workshop on Geothermal Reservoir Engineering, Stanford, CA, February 9-11, 2026, 10 p.

Study Area

Publication type Conference Paper
Publication Subtype Conference Paper
Title Stepovers and beyond: Structural control of The Geysers geothermal system and the broader Clear Lake region
Publication Date February 09, 2026
Year Published 2026
Language English
Publisher Stanford
Contributing office(s) Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center
Description 10 p.
Conference Title 51st Workshop on Geothermal Reservoir Engineering
Conference Location Stanford, CA
Conference Date February 9-11, 2026
Country United States
State California
Other Geospatial Clear Lake region, Geysers geothermal system
Additional publication details