Statistical analysis indicates that wastewater infrastructure projects have had a significant influence on the land use pattern in the Lake Tahoe Basin. Land use densities have increased immediately following the expansion of plant capacities in areas serviced by three of the four major wastewater treatment facilities. The subdivision approval rate of raw land was also found to be a function of anticipated treatment capacity. Federal and state water quality agencies played an active and central role in wastewater management programs designed to remove the threat of water pollution at Lake Tahoe. Cooperation among all levels of government led to expeditious resolution of the water quality problem in spite of the numerous geographic, economic and political constraints in the region. These increases in land use have subsequently produced major environmental problems in the Tahoe Basin. Thus, the singular focus on water quality led to unforeseen environmental impacts resulting from the land use changes made possible by the provision of extensive sewerage systems.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 105-125).