Because soil erosion affects the quantity and quality of farmland, it is a matter of great concern for both the government and the farm industry. Whereas in the past concern was over the potential damage to productivity, concern is now being voiced over off-site damage and water pollution. There are numerous federal programs set up to fight soil erosion, but they are all voluntary, thereby making it difficult for the government to target funds. The author reviews the seriousness of the problem, looks at the numerous government programs, and then analyzes the Food Security Act of 1985—the first act to make continued federal support contingent upon compliance with conservation guidelines.