2025/2026 Alpaca Owners Guide

 AOA REGISTRY

 Comprehensive alpaca show system including certification of alpaca shows and publication of the Show System Handbook  Annual National Halter and Fleece Shows  Support for breeding and fiber programs that add value to alpaca ownership  National marketing efforts to increase awareness of alpacas and alpaca products  Marketing resources for members to promote farms, farm stores, and fiber products  Expected Progeny Differences (EPD) program to support informed breeding decisions  Educational resources for anyone seeking to learn about alpacas  Elected nine-member Board of Directors and active member committees  National office in Lincoln, Nebraska, providing support  Online library of publications, videos, and documents  Regional affiliate organizations that extend education, promotion, and fellowship locally

AOA’s Alpaca Registry is the largest and most sophisticated of its kind. Using advanced DNA technology, parentage is validated for every

alpaca submitted for registration. Once confirmed, AOA issues a certificate with complete lineage tracing back to importation and a unique identification number. Since 1998, the registry has been closed to previously unregistered alpacas and their offspring, ensuring the genetic integrity of North American herds. This safeguards members’ investments and protects the alpaca gene pool from crossbreeding with other camelids. The registry—established in 1988—remains one of the most advanced livestock databases in the world and is a cornerstone of trust and value for breeders and owners.  AOA SHOW SYSTEM With more than 70 competitions each year, AOA manages the largest alpaca show system in the world. The show system develops curriculum for judge training and certification,

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