In 2000, an agricultural development commission was set up in Southern Maryland to assist farmers transitioning out of tobacco production.  One program the commission developed was the Farm Viability Enhancement Grant Program (FVEGP) which provides business planning assistance to transitioning farmers.  Farmers who develop plans can apply for FVEGP grant funds to implement portions of their business plan.  Grants range from $20,000 to $40,000.  Farmers receiving a grant must agree to a term easement keeping land in production for a 10 to 20-year term, with term length tied to the dollar value of the grant.