Evidence for large-scale Laramide tectonic inversion and a mid-Tertiary caldera ring fracture zone at the Lightening Dock geothermal system, New Mexico
— James C. Witcher

Stratigraphy in a recent intermediate depth (2100 ft) geothermal test hole is interpreted along side previous deep (7001 to 7404 ft depth) exploration holes to study large-scale structural controls for the Lightning Dock geothermal system and refine the stratigraphic and structural characterization of the shallow reservoir. Laramide compression and large-scale tectonic inversion of a northwest-trending Late Jurassic-Early Cretaceous extensional structure at the Lightning Dock geothermal site represents deformation that may exceed Neogene extensional processes in magnitude and duration and provide potential for a significant volume of shattered rock. Also, volcanic stratigraphy supports the hypothesis of Elston et al. (1983) for a mid- Tertiary caldera ring fracture zone in the vicinity the geothermal area. Northeast- and north-trending Neogene normal faults that cross cut older structures provide additional preparation of fractured ground. A north-trending Pleistocene normal fault may reopen older fractures that are favorably oriented and allow concentration and upward flow of deep-seated geothermal fluids. Because the Lightning Dock geothermal system is “blind” and has no surface manifestations, a better understanding of structures buried beneath Neogene alluvial basin fill may have application in geothermal exploration to find similar “blind” geothermal systems elsewhere in southern New Mexico and southeastern Arizona.