Video story reported and produced by Cheyenne Pagan of the USF Florida Focus class.
Raising alpaca is more than a business.
Considered a “huggable investment,” alpaca fiber is high in demand because of it naturally soft texture. Clothing items made from these fibers are changing opinions and dominating fashion centers in New York, Paris and Milan.
In 2006, Brenda Crum bought four alpaca for her ranch in Odessa. Today there are over 200 alpaca living under Crum’s care at the Golden Spirit Alpaca Ranch. All of the alpaca have their own name and charm and are considered part of the family.
Once a year, the alpaca are shaved for their fiber which are used to make anything from socks to hats. The fiber is spun into yarn which makes clothing particularly warm, soft and comfortable.
Crum’s ranch also hosts a 4-H club where children train the alpaca to compete at the Florida State Fair.
“These kids have to develop a relationship and the animal has to learn to trust them,” Crum said. “If they don’t trust each other, the animals won’t work for them.”
15-year-old Lily Thwaites started the team when she was in middle school and considers the alpaca and teammates family. Thwaites believes alpaca training has increased her leadership skills tremendously.
If you’re interested in booking a tour at Golden Spirit Alpaca Ranch, visit www.goldenspiritalpaca.com for more information.
