While in southern Iraq we visited the Mushoursh Community Farm composed of 120 families. We were ushered into a large Quonset shaped meeting place that was entirely constructed of reeds. Sheik Rashash was the senior member of the farm and was very hospitable, providing tea, coffee and juice. They invited us to stay for a feast of roasted lamb, however our schedule would not permit it.

       The farm operates on drained marshland and appeared to be quite productive. When asked about the environmental and cultural changes that had occurred due to the destruction of the marshes, he indicated that it was all part of progress. Environmentalist and anthropologist, I’m sure, would take issue with that. Food production was claimed to be much less than capacity because of lack of equipment and spare parts due to sanctions.

       This blurred image, created by a slow shutter speed, helps convey a feeling of quietness and the ethereal quality that existed inside this magnificently carpeted structure. One of the Mushoursh community members is about to serve coffee to a member of the Iraq Peace Team.

CSpaulding
January 2003