You will need CO's permission to operate within how many feet of the bottom?

The requirement to obtain the commanding officer's permission to operate within 50 feet of the bottom is crucial for maintaining safety and operational integrity while conducting activities in marine environments. This distance is significant because being within this range may pose risks to both personnel and equipment, as well as potentially disturb marine habitats.

Operating too close to the bottom can increase the likelihood of encounters with underwater obstacles, such as wrecks or buoyed items, which can lead to accidents or damage. Moreover, there may be specific operational protocols or environmental regulations that necessitate oversight by a commanding officer to ensure that operations are conducted safely.

In contrast, operating within shorter distances, such as 25 feet, may not provide enough room for maneuvering or avoiding unexpected hazards. Similarly, distances like 75 feet or 100 feet may be more cautionary than necessary for specific operations, making them less relevant for typical operational requirements. Therefore, the 50-foot guideline strikes a balance, ensuring that safety protocols are adhered to while allowing for effective operations in the assigned area.