In 1991, the Canada - British Columbia Soil Conservation Program resulted in the formation of numerous farmer-based soil conservation groups in the Fraser Valley. The Abbotsford Soil Conservation Association was formed in 1998 as a replacement for three original groups that had been based in Abbotsford. The focus of soil conservation groups has always been two-fold - field projects and public awareness activities. the work of soil conservation groups has had a positive impact on farmers as well as Abbotsford residents. Projects such as wind breaks and cover cropping to reduce soil erosion on Sumas Prairie resulted in taxpayer savings of over $125,000 in lowered ditch maintenance costs.