Alpaca farms across North America, including a farm in Monroe, opening their gates to the public this weekend as part of the 20th annual National Alpaca Farm Days.
Monroe alpaca farm owner Tari Maxfield said the nationwide initiative began two decades ago as a way to introduce the public to alpacas and educate visitors about the animals and the fiber they produce.
“They’re special animals,” Maxfield said, “They’re very gentle, they’re very calming animals to be around and they’re a great introduction to livestock and animals for those that don’t live on farms, because their nature is so easy to deal with.”
Maxfield said Saturday features a free event where visitors can see and interact with alpacas. Maxfield said alpaca fiber is warmer than wool and can be as soft as cashmere.
Maxfield said the material is hypoallergenic because it does not contain the lanolin found in sheep’s wool that can cause allergic reactions or itching for some people.
“It wicks and it breathes, therefore you can wear it in any climate,” Maxfield said. “There’s lighter weight alpaca you can wear in the summer and there’s heavier weight that you can wear in the tundra.”
National Alpaca Farm Days also gives families who may have little experience around livestock an opportunity to learn about the animals firsthand. Maxfield said alpacas are generally curious and will often eat grain directly from a person’s hand.
“They don’t bite you, they don’t do much as far as aggression, they’re flight animals,” Maxfield said. “So it’s very easy for families, for small children. Two year olds can actually interact, so it’s pretty cool.”
Maxfield said alpacas can also have less impact on pastureland than some traditional livestock because they graze without pulling up plant roots. Their padded feet can also reduce damage to the ground.
“Their feces, poop, whatever you want to call it is actually a really good source of fertilizer,” Maxfield continued. “So it gives back.”
Visitors to the Monroe event will be able to learn more about alpacas, interact with the animals and participate in an alpaca walk along a designated trail. Maxfield recommended visitors wear sturdy footwear that can get dirty.
Tapestry Acres will participate in National Alpaca Farm Days Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. at 396 Taylor Crossroads Road in Monroe, near Dale Hollow Lake. There is no admission fee, though the farm will accept donations to help with animal feed and upkeep.
