AOBA is the driving force of the alpaca livestock industry. Through the Show Division alpaca shows are governed and approved, conferences & educational events held, and working with other alpaca organizations such as the Alpaca Registry, Alpaca Fiber Cooperative of North America and the Alpaca Research Foundation the direction of the industry is set. A world-class marketing program and Show Division serves the mutual benefit of all members. AOBA increases awareness of the alpaca as an animal and the use of their exquisite fiber in garments and household items of every type.
Why should I be a member?
Information – your AOBA membership gives you access to an extensive library of books, videos, and other publications providing a wealth of information about raising alpacas, farming techniques, training, husbandry, veterinarian care, health and research advances, and marketing techniques. AOBA produces a number of brochures to assist members available through the AOBA Store. The following are some specific examples of growing the industry.
Marketing! - the AOBA Marketing Committee, a volunteer organization, provides the infrastructure for the growth of the industry and the financial success of the AOBA membership. Through the National Marketing Program, AOBA members have access to those interested in alpacas promoted through website and TV advertising. We average over 300,000 web visitors per year from potential alpaca farmers. Farm members can also choose to participate in the Farm & Ranch Guide marketing program, which funds the industry’s centralized advertising and PR. By pooling our marketing dollars, AOBA members can obtain the best value for those dollars benefiting farms both large and small farms, new and established. In addition, AOBA has produced several DVDs, which are excellent tools to educate the public at farm events, fairs and meet and greet functions. Progressive and unique in its efficiency and results, the AOBA marketing program is top in its class and reaps significant benefits for members who put it to work for their farms or ranches.
Political Action - if you are serious about the alpaca industry or just getting started, your voice needs to be heard in determining the direction of this industry. Participating in this industry makes us all stronger and capable for the future. AOBA members are a very diverse group with many different opinions and ideas. While the dialogues about the shaping of the industry occasionally heat up a bit, AOBA members can almost universally be described as a group of highly intelligent, motivated, and caring individuals with a sincere interest in the mutual success of ALL alpaca breeders. Our Government and Industry Relations Committee helps the members achieve goals and objectives in this area.
National Conferences – there are two Annual National Conferences each year, a winter conference and a summer conference. The winter conference is slanted more towards education and fiber arts without alpacas; however, the summer conference contains it all- information, education, fleece and breed shows and arts and crafts. The summer national is the largest alpaca show in the world. AOBA Affiliates are regional associations allowing local breeders to network and many hold events with education and shows.
Member Support - if these items don’t convince you, the most important aspect of membership is member support. AOBA members provide a wealth of support for new and existing breeders. Social events are fun and allow members can discuss and share ideas and successful programs. Everything is easier when you have members willing to guide you in the proper direction instead of reinventing the wheel on your own.
AOBA is the alpaca industry organization…put it to work for you and your alpacas!
