We get this question asked a lot. Many think raising alpacas is pretty "outside the box". Especially if you always lived in an urban environment. But other than the smaller size of our national herd, the alpaca industry is not so different than the more "traditional" North American livestock industries. The 3 main reasons we raise alpacas are:
Lifestyle... We enjoy the rural lifestyle and personal satisfaction that comes from raising and caring for these special animals. We started raising horses and considered raising other farm animals but it was the alpacas that held the most interest for us. Recognized by the UN as one of the most sustainable domesticted animals in the world, the camelid species, including alpacas, are very "green". They don't require much land or other resources. They are fairly small, gentle and easy to handle which greatly reducing the potential for injury to even small children.
Business/Investment... One very prominent factor that caught our attention is that the industry is not based upon a terminal (slaughter) business model in order to be profitable. The alpaca industry has a promising future returning alpaca fiber to it's pre spanish conquest qualities. The agriculture tax considerations help offset risk which in turn keeps the agriculture industry sound and productive.
Fulfillment... It is very fulfilling to witnessing herd improvement progress and helping our clients obtain their goals. It is personally rewarding to help shape the US alpaca industry and raise one of the most eco-friendly livestock in the world.
No matter where you live, raising alpacas offer an attractive business and farming opportunity. Urban and suburban dwellers can board (or "agist") their alpacas at nearby farms/ranches. Boarding your alpacas may provide all the financial and tax benefits of ownership without the daily responsibilities.
Why not just raise cattle or sheep? The alpaca industry is unique to other livestock. We enjoy being involved in the excitement of an industry that is just coming of age. Current technology is able to provide assistance of how to best raise and improve this livestock without the "Trial and Error" method that has affected traditional livestock for centuries. Working with gentle and very intelligent animals is satisfying as well as being a part of designing the future of the industry. It is very rewarding to witness the advances of our herd and the worldwide industry in general.