GEOLOGIC COMPILATION MAP OF THE HARNEY BASIN OREGON, AND IMPLICATIONS FOR BASIN HYDROSTRATIGRAPHY

The Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD) has completed a GIS-based compilation of the geology of the Harney Basin at 1:250,000. The new map compiles existing geologic mapping at a variety of scales, and relies on new 24k mapping (DOGAMI), available radiometric ages, new and existing whole-rock chemistry, elevation data, and satellite imagery to inform map unit designations and resolve map boundary discrepancies. Subsurface interpretations presented as regional cross sections are supported by historic oil and gas well records, recent observation well drilling, and newly acquired subsurface whole-rock geochemistry data.

This generalized geologic map provides a basin-wide synthesis of the stratigraphic and structural setting of the Harney Basin, and serves as the basin-scale geologic framework for the ongoing cooperative OWRD-USGS Harney Basin groundwater study. This work, combined with new and existing hydrologic data will be used to define major hydrostratigraphic units for use in the development of a numerical groundwater flow model. The compilation is also designed as an outreach and education tool for engaging stakeholders in the basin with the geology and hydrogeology of their region.