The board of directors has expanded to five members. The registry is funding alpaca shows, education, research, and marketing. All these things have taken place within the last eighteen months. I think it is fair to say that our future growth is dependent more on the loyalty, participation, and enthusiasm of alpaca breeders than it is on the absolute number of alpacas under ownership. We often hear about how many thousands of alpacas are in North America.
People often use the current herd census to gauge the industry's growth and potential.
But I think the more relevant number is how many breeders currently own animals and participate in the alpaca business. Even more remarkable, all of these accomplishments have been brought about by unpaid volunteers who have donated considerable time and effort to lay a solid foundation for our continuing success. The alpaca industry will continue succeeding through the positive efforts of its participants and the positive energy of our community. New people looking to join us in raising alpacas are often weary of petty politics, an uncivil society, and high-stress jobs, and they want to participate in an endeavor that embodies the values of rural life. They want neighbors they can trust, loyal friends, and participation in a business that offers fellowship as well as financial rewards.