Hayward couple finds joy raising alpacas

By Melissa Ganje & Carrie Kohlmeier, FOX 21 News

HAYWARD - They are South American creatures said to be as soft as cashmere.  In Hayward, one couple has made a successful business out of raising these friendly critters at Joyful Journey Alpacas.

At an alpaca farm in Hayward, everyday is sheer enjoyment for owners Jeff and Sue Groeschl.  "It's the best, it's the best, and I wouldn't trade it," said Sue Groeschl.  But before they started Joyful Journey Alpacas, the Groeschl's spent 2 years researching alpacas and made several farm visits to just experience the animals.  "It took 18 years to figure out what to do with the back acreage that we both agreed on and this fit perfectly," said Sue Groeschl.  Now they've been happily raising these adorable critters for the past 5 years.  "For the sheer enjoyment of it, a love of the animal and the financial diversity it provided us," said Jeff Groeschl.  The Groeschl's sell their quality alpacas for breed stock to other farms that are just getting started.  They also send the raw fleece to a mill in Kansas where it's made into yarn and weaved into scarves and wraps.  Sue Groeschl says, "And that pretty much takes care of the cost of their upkeep."  A job they take on together.  "For sue and I, this was such a common bond, something for us to work on together that we both really enjoyed."  The Groeschl's spend their days taking care of their herd of 30 alpacas; they say it's a privilege and a joy in their lives.  "You don't have to be out here a huge amount of time to take care of these animals but we choose to," said Sue Groeschl.  "The greatest enjoyment I get is caring for them and just being around them," said Jeff Groeschl.

Alpacas come from the mountains of South America and were first imported into the U.S. in the 80's.  The Groeschl's say they're incredibly friendly and calming.  "We've had so many people come to visit and they are like, can we just live in your barn? It just feels good being around these animals."  They've also bred their share of ribbon winners.  The Groeschl's usually attend about 6 shows a year.  "It started out with we are just going to have fun with this but you win your first blue ribbon and a color champion and there is a real sense of pride there," said Sue Groeschl.  But when they are not winning awards, alpacas spend their days grazing on pasture and lounging.  "They got the life, they love to graze and the little ones love to run around and play.  They are having a good time enjoying life and it feels go to know we help make that happen."

The Groeschl's are hosting an alpaca seminar at their farm on September 5th.  Call Joyful Journey Alpacas at (715) 634-3137 for more information.