There are 100 000 silt arresters(SA) and 381 300 hm² farmlands on the loess plateau that have been built since 1949. The widespread investigation showed that these SA have high effect of economic and social benefit on the soil and water conservation there. However, there were many problems in the SA construction and utilization, it especially showed at five aspects as follows: (1) The distribution of SA system are almost irrational and more weak and dangerous building. (2) Because of the low designing standard, the engineerings are easy to be destroyed and broken down. (3) The quality in specific implement of these structures is worse, and the engineering is not harmonious. (4) The bad management of structure bodies, loose mainte-nance. (5) The low utilization ratio and economical benefit of the filled farmlands.