Our goal in the 4-H Llama Project is to teach members to enjoy and respect llamas and alpacas as well as learn about their history, uses, care, training and handling. Monthly educational programs include working with llama fiber as well as with the animals themselves, and members learn recommended practices in caring for camelids in order to create the best possible environment for them to thrive. A veterinarian, a fiber expert and a llama judge/trainer are among those tapped to lead specific sessions. Once project llamas are assigned, members work with their animals individually or in small groups on various llama farms in the county, coming together for group training at certain points.

            Special outings and field trips are scheduled throughout the project year, and members are made aware of other educational opportunities they can pursue on their own. Some of the scheduled activities include shearing days on a llama farm, visits to a fiber mill and a yarn shop, participation in the Roberts Good Neighbor Days parade and a special clinic on cart driving with llamas. Participation in llama shows such as Llama Magic and the Interstate Llama Showdown is encouraged, as is attendance at educational conferences held by the Wisconsin and Minnesota llama organizations, both of which have a special youth program at their winter events.

            Project members participate in the Llama Show at the St. Croix County Fair in obstacle, showmanship and halter classes. They also may enter items made of llama fiber, posters related to some aspect of raising and handling llamas or a sample of their llama’s fleece. On the last day of the fair, project members and their friends participate in the Llama Games, an informal series of fun contests like leaping llama, llama limbo and relay races with llamas.

            If you have questions about the Llama Project or would like more information, contact Sheila Fugina, county 4-H Llama Project leader, at bsfugina AT pressenter.com or 715-246-5837.