Alpaca business owners throughout North America will celebrate the 19th annual National Alpaca Farm Days on Sept. 27 and 28, according to a news release from Alpaca Owners Association, Inc. (AOA).
The AOA invites the public to visit participating member farms and ranches during this family event. Attendees will learn more about the animals, the luxury fiber they produce and why the alpaca business is perfect for environmentally conscious individuals, according to the release.
Nearby alpaca farms participating in Alpaca Days include Sweetgrass and Sage Alpaca and Wellness Farm, 301-19 Pleasant Hill Road, Chehalis; La Vida Alpaca & Tahoma Vista Fiber Mill, 15631 159th Lane SE, Yelm; and Mt. View Alpaca Farm, 5728 Young Road NW, Olympia.
A complete list of participating farms can be found at www.AlpacaFarmDays.com.
Alpacas are primarily raised for their fleece in North America. As domesticated animals, it is up to their owners to keep them safe and healthy. A big part of doing so is annual shearing, according to the news release. A full fleeced alpaca in warmer months will suffer from heat stress, which can be a life-threatening medical condition.
This symbiotic relationship provides comfort and good health to the alpacas and a natural fiber to their caregivers, the release stated.
Prized for its unique, silky feel and superb “handle,” alpaca fleece is highly sought-after by both cottage-industry artists, such as hand spinners, knitters and weavers, as well as the commercial fashion industry, the news release stated.
