The Alpaca Small Farm Network (ASFN) began meeting informally over potluck dinners in 2004 with the goal of alpaca breeders getting to know one another in the community. We formed friendships and mutually supportive relationships during that time.  Eventually the focus turned to pursuing the formation of a more structured organization the purpose of providing more intense educational efforts and other joint projects by the members.  ASFN is now an AOBA affiliate.

In January of 2005, ASFN held its first major educational event, a two-day alpaca health seminar with Dr. Toni Cotton, DVM (one day for vets and one day for owners). This was a very successful event that raised the level of education for our members as well as many other farms and veterinarians in the region.

Our first alpaca show held in Clemson, SC, November 18-20th, 2005 was a joint effort with the Southeastern Alpaca Association. This first AOBA certified show in the Carolinas was a huge success with 280 alpacas attending, representing 81 farms. The majority of the alpacas entered were from small regional farms. It was exciting to see new and small breeders entering the show-ring and doing well.

The fleece show had well over a hundred fleeces judged with many receiving ribbons for their fine fleeces.  Show volunteers did a great job of making the attendees and the public feel welcome.

ASFN also will conduct mini educational events, some of which will be connected with quarterly meetings, others of which will stand-alone. Our focus is on foundational education for the new breeder and small farmer that will lead to a better life for our alpacas and greater success for the individual farmer. 

We are excited about the future of this organization and the continuing opportunity to serve as a resource for new breeders and small alpaca farms.