What is the minimum crest width required for earth of 20 feet or less?

The minimum crest width required for earth that is 20 feet or less is established to ensure stability and functionality. A crest width of 3 feet provides adequate space for necessary operations, maintenance activities, and vehicle passage, while also allowing for proper drainage and preventing erosion. This width helps distribute the weight of any machinery and guards against the potential issues that can arise from too narrow a crest, such as instability or collapse under heavy loads.

Wider crests may offer advantages in specific scenarios, but for standard earthworks of this height, 3 feet is the prescribed minimum. This standard is aimed at maintaining balance between structural integrity and resource efficiency. The other width options either exceed what is necessary for this height, which could unnecessarily increase material costs and labor, or fall short, potentially compromising safety and functionality.