What does the "30-foot rule" in sediment control entail?

The "30-foot rule" in sediment control primarily refers to the guidelines that aim to mitigate soil disturbance near water bodies to protect aquatic ecosystems. When soil disturbance is limited to a maximum distance of 30 feet from a water body, it helps reduce sediment runoff and erosion that could adversely affect water quality and habitat in adjacent aquatic environments. This guideline is particularly pertinent in construction and land development activities, where minimizing the impact on surrounding natural resources is crucial.

This principle aligns with best management practices in erosion and sediment control, ensuring that disturbances near sensitive areas such as streams, rivers, lakes, and wetlands are kept to a minimum, thereby reducing the potential for adverse environmental impacts.