"Investors have the opportunity to compete for the stalls in the market every year," said Capt. John P. Dicks, 403rd Civil Affairs Battalion. "However, the price for the stalls today will stay the same for three years if investors choose."

Another auction for the remaining stalls will be held prior to the grand opening of the market, tentatively scheduled for June 2.

The CEFM offers 20 outdoor stalls, 24 indoor stalls, a cafeteria, training room, male and female bathrooms, a small kitchen, guardrooms and a rest area for drivers.

"This market will create a positive impact on the surrounding community," said Shaykh Kudiar Al Jbor, the CEFM chairman. "This is an institution that we hope to be very peaceful and put development into the community that will last for decades to come."

Other benefits of the farmer's market include a board consisting of half Sunni and half Shiite members. The market will also benefit more than 4,000 farmers and employ former Sons of Iraq security volunteers to guard the CEFM.

"Today was an overall success," said Dicks. "The market will bring the cost of owning and running a business down, which will increase the amount of business within the area."