Our Story

Mariposa Gardens Alpaca Ranch began in 1997 when we met and fell in love with these soft creatures. Like so many others, we had a desire to build a home  based business which  would give us some  extra income and some  business  tax  deductions.  Simply by flipping through a Sunset

We became excited to find out more about alpacas by visiting several ranches on a summer  road  trip.  Within a few  weeks we had  committed to buying our first female, a male and a companion. Phew! Our new adventure was underway. We had land to clear, fences and a barn to build and waterers to hook-up. What had we gotten ourselves into? By the end of September, our new animals were home.

We can look back now and see we had jumped into the deep end with both  feet and our eyes closed, but in retrospect we can also say it has been an enjoyable life changing experience. We have learned so much about alpaca care from both hands-on experience and educational research. We have met and become friends with the nicest people, many of whom have shared their knowledge and alpaca experiences. Along with us,  our  children have  learned  about  the care and  nurturing  of alpacas and  sharing the joy of  witnessing the  miracle of cria's birth.

From our one female 11 years ago, we have grown to 25 animals on the ranch. We have learned to enjoy each and everyone one as well as spending quality time together. The best thing ever is ending our day watching the babies run around chasing each other and kicking up their heels. It has been a true labor of love.

Mike and Allison Fairfield