History of Great Lakes Ranch

At Great Lakes Ranch, the vision of an idyllic yet profitable lifestyle has been a working reality for over two decades. It began as a young man's dream in 1981: to raise fun and beautiful livestock -suri alpacas and llamas - in a peaceful, rural setting.

Great Lakes Ranch lies in a serene valley on Michigan's Lower Peninsula. It is bordered by 70,000 acres of pine and hardwood forests, crystal clear lakes and rivers and 35 miles of pristine Lake Michigan shoreline of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This has been the perfect setting for raising a family engaged in the community and outdoor recreational pursuits, as well as an ideal environment for our beautiful animals that have provided a unique livelihood in one of America's premier locations.

Gratefully, since 1981, I am honored to be one of only a handful of Americans who have made a lifelong career of raising alpacas and llamas. My involvement in all phases of the alpaca and llama industries has included my service as a board director for both the International Llama Association and the Great Lakes Alpaca Association, and as an advisor for Llamas Magazine. I have served on the National Show Committees for both alpacas and llamas, judged numerous shows and been a speaker at national conferences.

On three occasions I traveled to South America to study alpacas, llamas and guanacos in their native environment. In 1983, I studied guanacos with Iowa State University in Chile and Argentina, in 1991 I observed the breeding practices of the Aymara Indians in the high Altiplano of Northern Chile and Bolivia and on yet another trip, I was involved in the selection process of Peruvian suri alpacas.

Years of hard work, dedication and fascination with the animals have resulted in my continuing success in selecting and breeding outstanding stock that have performed consistently on the national level as blue ribbon winners and auction high sellers.

Great Lakes Ranch remains committed to the long-term vitality of the camelid industry. By design, the size of our operation allows us to be hands-on in every aspect of the daily management of both our herd and business, and to personally attend the nation's biggest events. It also affords us the time we feel is essential to dedicate to our valued customers on an ongoing basis, and yet still enjoy our incredible surroundings. We offer the same full service, after sale support and ranch guarantee that has given our clients confidence for over 20 years.

If you are truly interested in learning more about investing in a rewarding lifestyle that will help you to build a wonderful future, come visit us here, in beautiful Leelanau County. We look forward to hearing from you!