Below are some typical alpaca farm sizes with corresponding acreage estimates. Some of the largest farms in the US have several hundred alpacas. Those operations are relatively rare with only a handful of farms getting to be that large in the United States. The majority have around 15 to 20 alpacas on 10 - 20 acres.  Bear in mind that most breeders start small and grow their herd. It takes just a few short years to be at that level. Size of the acreage is not as important as what kind of forage grows there to support the alpacas dietary needs.  Pasture quality, rainfall, length of growing season all enter in to the computation of how many acres does it take to support x number of alpacas. If your plans for your alpaca business lean toward the larger size, its best to have a little more land unless you plan to be buying feed year round.

• Large Breeding Farm--40+ alpacas on *40+ acres with 15 to 20 new crias each year
   
• Medium Breeding Farm--15-30 alpacas on 20-40 acres with 5 to 10 new crias each year.

• Small Breeding Farm--less than 10 alpacas on 5-10
  acres with 3 to 5 new crias each year
   
• Hobby Farm--less than 5 alpacas on 2 - 5 acres

*acreage requirements vary for the number of alpacas being supported. Alpaca stocking rate of 5-6 per acre is usually quite acceptable, depending upon forage, pasture rotation and available resources.

Agistment:

Many alpaca owners choose to agist (board) their alpacas at one or more farms owned by other breeders.   It’s a great way to get started in alpacas without actually having to own a farm. 

Farm Layout:

Choosing a layout for your alpaca operation is always a challenge.  Barn placement, fencing, gates, water, feeding areas, pens all need to be well thought out. Many times existing buildings and other consideration make it especially challenging.  It is a process that every alpaca farmer or rancher goes through.  It is a little like a jigsaw puzzle.  It always helps to visit other farms and talk with experienced alpaca people.

We are particularly good at helping with this task.  Call Matt at 816-619-3515 and he’ll be glad to help you select and design a layout that works for your alpaca ranch or farm

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