By Blake Jackson
Kentucky's agricultural industry gets a unique boost from alpaca farms. July is designated as Kentucky Alpaca Fleece and Fiber Month, highlighting the contributions of these farms.
"Alpacas offer a special addition to our livestock scene," states Kentucky's Agriculture Commissioner. Their fleece, resembling cashmere in its softness, is used in various products. The Commissioner encourages visiting alpaca farms to learn more about these animals and the many products their fleece creates.
Alpaca farms contribute to Kentucky's agriculture in three ways: fiber products, agritourism, and breeding stock sales. Over 200 farms across the state raise alpacas.
"Kentucky is ideal for raising alpacas," says the president of the Kentucky Alpaca Association. The association offers support to both new and established farms through educational programs.
The Kentucky Alpaca Association boasts members in 30 counties, with alpacas present in nearly all 120 counties. These members breed and sell alpacas, create and sell alpaca fiber products, and welcome visitors to their farms for agritourism experiences. The association even created alpaca socks from locally sourced fleece! They also collaborate with 4-H programs to engage young people.
Nationally recognized events this July celebrate alpaca fleece and fiber. The Alpaca Owners Association is hosting the National Fleece Show and Conference, featuring educational workshops and a massive fleece competition. Additionally, The Suri Network is holding the world's largest Suri alpaca fleece show.
To further promote Kentucky's alpaca industry, the Bluegrass Yarn and Fiber Crawl is taking place this July. This crawl showcases various fiber producers and artisans throughout the state, including those working with alpaca fleece alongside other natural fibers.
Photo Credit: kentucky-agricultural-board
Categories: Kentucky, General