Awards and Testimonials

We, at Great Lakes Ranch, apply the same level of commitment and dedication to our customers as we have displayed in our lifelong commitment to ensuring the long-term vitality of the camelid industry. The satisfaction of our customers is paramount. Included with the sale of every animal from this ranch, over and above our ranch reproductive guarantee, is a package that has continuously earned our client's confidence over the many years we have been in business. That package, composed of our full after sale support, service, advice and knowledge is designed to help our customers thoroughly enjoy their animals and succeed within the industry.

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Our desision to purchace our first alpacas from Great Lakes Ranch in 1998 is one we have never regretted. <more>	In 1998, we aquired our first three alpacas from Great Lakes Ranch. <more>	We first met while studying guanacos in Patagonia, and now, after 20 years... <more>	I met Brad at my first Llama sale over 15 years ago. <more>

In 1983, just two years after I acquired my first llama, I stepped into the show ring for the very first time. One year later I won my first Grand Champion award. The experience of showing alpacas and llamas for all of these years has been educational as well as fun.

For me, showing livestock isn't just about winning blue ribbons. More important than winning ribbons, is the opportunity that shows provide to continuously learn about the breed. It is all about getting out of my own pastures and barns and seeing what other breeders are doing. It is about trying to calculate what I need to do to stay ahead or keep up with my fellow breeders. The endeavor to stay on top requires a vision, constant dedication, lots of hard work and a willingness to always learn "what is new" and how that might be best incorporated into my own breeding or showmanship philosophy. The ribbons are only part of the wealth. The knowledge gained through the process of working the show ring is the "real" award and what serves to hold my fascination with alpacas for so many years.