ADT's training creates buzz in Afghanistan

By Army 1st Lt. Lory Stevens Task
Force Warrior Public Affairs

Army 1st Lt. Brandon Burton and Army Staff Sgt. Erik Singsaas of the Task Force Warrior agriculture development team pose for a picture with Afghans from Parwan and Kapisa provinces attending agricultural training on Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, June 13, 2009. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Lory Stevens, Task Force Warrior public affairs) download hi-res photo

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, (06/22/09) - Representatives from Zinzee and Turkman villages, along with staff members from Al Bironi University, journeyed here June 13 for a day of activity that had them buzzing with questions.

Army Staff Sgt. Erik Singsaas, intelligence sergeant of Task Force Warrior's agriculture development team of the Tennessee National Guard, provided classroom and hands-on training about bee anatomy and beehive care to the many guests on hand.

"The training was offered in support of Task Force Warrior's recent Commander's Emergency Response Program projects that placed over 400 beehives and equipment in Parwan and Kapisa [provinces]," Singsaas said while explaining plans to provide similar future training.

Singsaas covered multiple topics in the classroom, including bee anatomy and behavior; hive design, care and management; processing honey and wax; catching a swarm; bee-sting care; vectors; and benefits of pollination to crops.

Agriculture equipment was on display, and the team provided demonstrations for the Afghans during the classroom training.

"The Afghans had many questions, and were very interested and grateful for the information," said Army Sgt. 1st Class Eldon Kuntzelman, an agronomist with the team. He added that he believes the Afghans gained knowledge and will use the new hives to their potential.

The team's research on beehives here provided an opportunity in the afternoon for Afghans to use equipment and work on hive maintenance.

"This training puts actual working agricultural products in the hands of Afghans, and trains confident and capable individuals to work within the scope of bee projects," Singsaas said.

Printer Friendly