Mudding With the Bus

Today we had an awesome opportunity to take a field trip to the Hinche area to explore agriculture. A group of about 35 from UCCC and Hawkeye had this opportunity thanks to the sponsorship of Orchard Hill Church farmers from Iowa. Due to the unusual rain yesterday the roads where a bit slippery to say the least. I think it is safe to say it was the first time most of us have been “mudding” on a bus. Before lunch we were able to visit an area outside Hinche that is partnered with Whispering Roots, an organization in Omaha, Nebraska. They are producing about 12,000 tilapia in cages and have large gardens. It was great to see the interaction between the farmers from Hinche and the students from UCCC excahnage information and have great discussions. While in the area we, also, stopped by and visited an organization that shares farming practices with Haitian farmers. They focus on plant and crop production, but had aquaculture as well.

The group enjoyed a chicken lunch at a cozy restaurant in Hinche, before we returned to the Caiman area. This was a rare experience for the students and it was great to see their excitement from the day. When we returned to campus we trekked out to deliver rice and beans to families in the area. We are grateful to Randy and Jill Konken for purchasing the rice and beans to be delivered. While walking back to campus we found some area children playing soccer and joined in for a bit. Many took the opportunity to get some additional physical activity with a volleyball game on campus upon our return.

After dinner tonight Nelson, who is a former witch doctor, joined us to share his story. It was an eye opening experience for the group into the history and culture of Haiti. There is no questioning the dedication of the students here in Haiti. They are excited to join us on Saturday morning to learn more and help us assemble the one row planter.