The Pollutant Load Reduction Model (PLRM) is intended to be used for evaluating and comparing pollutant load reduction alternatives for storm water quality improvement projects in the Tahoe Basin. The PLRM uses publicly available software and source code to provide users with complete access to the tools developed. The PLRM is intended to be practical for application by users possessing a basic understanding of hydrology, water quality, and water resources modeling.

The primary purpose of the PLRM is to assist project designers to select and justify a recommended storm water project alternative based on a quantitative comparison of pollutant loads and runoff volumes for project alternatives. Pollutant loads in storm water are highly variable, and notoriously difficult to predict with absolute accuracy at particular locations and times. The focus of the PLRM is to make use of best available Lake Tahoe storm water quality information to compare relative performance of alternatives over the long term.
 

The PLRM may eventually support broader objectives beyond prediction of the relative performance of storm water project alternatives. However, additional development, testing, and an institutional framework for supporting the PLRM are needed to expand the use of the PLRM. The structure of the PLRM was designed to be flexible and robust so that future refinements can efficiently improve upon the PLRM, without the need to incorporate significant redevelopment or rebuilding of the model structure. 

The PLRM is not intended to predict pollutant loads at larger spatial scales (e.g., entire Tahoe Basin watersheds) or in non-urbanized settings in the Tahoe Basin. The PLRM should not be used to size facilities and conveyances for flood protection. The PLRM will not replace tools and models recommended by local and regional hydrology guidelines or codes for flood protection.   Finally, the model will not explicitly evaluate the effects of hydrologic modification on downstream channel erosion and associated sediment loads.