Download our 'Why Come to Us?' Brochure by
Looking for a Mentor? Start here. This brochure can help answer your questions.
HaSu Ranch is a
prominent figure in the national alpaca scene
with its award-winning herd and exceptional
marketing acumen. Along with the alpaca
business, HaSu operates the industry's
premiere marketing firm. With the combination
of these businesses, they offer very
unique skills and knowledge to clients. While
many breeders have quality alpacas, few can
provide the assistance and tangible support
HaSu Ranch does. Our Broad range of services add value to any alpaca purchase and help clients succeed from day-one.
Click on the Image to read about all HaSu Ranch has to offer, in addition to our spectacular suri and huacaya alpacas!
Getting Ready by
Hanford Mills Historic Museum by
Situated in the northern Catskills, Hanford Mills Museum is a working saw and grist mill powered by a Fitz overshot waterwheel. The Museum also features tours of the John Hanford Farmstead and a gasoline powered engine and dynamo. Explore the mill at your leisure or take a guided tour. Walk our nature trail, and view changing exhibits of local and regional history in our exhibit gallery.
HaSu Gets New Shearing Tools by Hazen Reed and Susan Muther
HaSu Ranch and its sister company, Breedworks have joined with Mike Safley to create a tool to provide cutting-edge science to the alpaca industry which will allow breeders of all sizes to track the ability of individual sires to transfer specific desired fiber traits to their off-spring. This tool is an easy-to use fiber collection system that can be found on the Ideal Alpaca Community's website and uses the laboratories of Yocom-McColl to study fiber samples and produce detailed histograms. Yocom-McColl can then study the collected data and with the aid of experts at Virginia Tech create a data base that will allow this industry to more successfully breed to a higher quality fiber...
HaSu Arrives by
Staging Area by
The Alpacas and Students Meet by
The American Hotel by
The American Hotel, on the National Register of Historic Places, was built between 1847 and 1851 by Nicolas LaRue of Esperance, NY. It operated as a hotel until the 1950's and then as a religious retreat until closing in 1989. Garth Roberts and Douglas Plummer purchased the American in 1996. The hotel proudly reopened May 23rd, 2001 after an extensive four-year renovation.
The Inn at Cooperstown by
Built in 1874 as the annex to Cooperstown's posh Hotel Fenimore and fully restored in 1985, The Inn at Cooperstown continues a long tradition of providing genuine hospitality and distinctive accommodations in the heart of Cooperstown, NY. The Inn offers clean, comfortable lodging just a short distance from all the local attractions.
The Final Resolution: Digital Photography by Susan Muther
Ever wonder why the printer refused to accept your digital photographs; or why your images look great on your monitor but lousy in your brochure? What's all this about DPI and Resolution?
Getting the Most Out of the Show Season by
Alpaca shows are packed with learning and
marketing opportunities for the new breeder and the established breeder. The
HaSu Ranch Alpacas show season begins in March. As it approaches, we wanted to
share our ideas about how to maximize your return from the expenses of
participating in regional and national shows...
HaSu Starts with a Splash of Blues by
With breeding season underway in concert with show season, we'd like to announce the stellar results at HaSu's first show of the season as a testament to the potency of our herdsires. At the '10 North American Alpaca Show our herdsires and their progeny made their triumphant way into the winner's circle.
First Show All Winners by
With breeding season underway in concert with show season, we'd like to announce the stellar results at HaSu's first show of the season as a testament to the potency of our herdsires. At the '10 North American Alpaca Show our herdsires and their progeny made their triumphant way into the winner's circle.
Alpaca Information by
The HaSu Alpaca information seminar series is gearing up. The '09
classes are now being scheduled. This year we'll be covering all you
need to know about alpacas for sale, raising alpacas, taking alpaca pictures, marketing alpacas and how to develop an effective breeding program. We're even offering a special course
this year on alpaca EPDs.
alpaca leads by
To get your alpaca to walk with you, you will need a lead to attach to
the halter. We like to use 9 foot lead. Ours are lightweight nylon
leads with a small smooth hook for clipping to the halter.
Brewery Ommegang by
Nestled in the rolling hills of Cooperstown, Brewery Ommegang is the only Brewery in America dedicated to producing all bottle-conditioned Belgian style ales. Cooperstown, thought of more often as the home to America's favorite pastime, was once the center of a bustling hop economy. Brewery Ommegang was built on the foundation of one of Otsego county's largest hop farm.
Final Touches by
Jessica and Poppy Meet by
Kountry Living B&B by
Innkeepers Bernadette and Pat run this immaculately kept 125 year old federal inn. Formerly a part of a 240 acre dairy farm, it is situated on the outskirts of the city of Oneonta. A stay at the Kountry Living Bed & Breakfast puts you a short drive from recreational, cultural and educational activities. Your stay will include various items from fresh flowers to the toothbrush/robe you may have forgotten.
Making Friends and Feeding by
Shearing Ropes by
HaSu Training by
Long before you make your reservations and pay your show fees and long before you pack the trailer you must begin to prepare your alpacas for their trip to an alpaca show. In fact, aside from ensuring a safe birth and a clean bill of health, it is one of the first things you will do for your alpaca. Training an alpaca begins at a very early age but by preparing your alpaca to be comfortable being handled and led you are doing one of the kindest things you can do for your alpaca...
A Brand New Cria Born During the Tour by
catch rope by
A catch rope will come in handy if you have even one alpaca who is on
the more unruly side. Or in other words, has not been halter trained.
In Position by
Shammie Selects Joey by
What to Take to a Show by
Packing for a show involves more than making sure your alpacas have water buckets and you have toothpaste. This is your primary marketing opportunity of the year. Not only do you need to ensure the welfare of your animals but you need to ensure the welfare of your business by presenting yourself as a thorough and knowledgeable business manager...
Asgaard Poses for the Kids by
Christmas Alpaca Attire by
Hug Time by
I Can't See by
Morgan Comforts Zermatt by
Shearing Begins by
HaSu's Banner Year by
'05 was a Banner year for HaSu with multi Championships in NY and OH. Ashokan and Bruxo's Tatanka won Grand Champion under 2 of the most respected judges. Both males were chosen Champions by Amanda VandenBosch at NY's EAE. And Tatanka doubled up on his banners by winning Champion under Jude Anderson at Ohio AlpacaFest.
HaSu has Twins (Human) Again! by
Some people have already met our two scrumptious boys. But for those who haven't had the pleasure, we'd like to introduce our darlings, Risdon and Tabor born August 29th, 2006. They arrived 4 weeks early and spent a few weeks in the neonatal ICU. But you would never know they had a rough start when you see them now, all plump and round. They are the lights of their mommy and daddy's lives.
HaSu's Stellar Show Results by
'07 took HaSu into the spotlight, bringing home many top awards from level V shows, under the most respected judges. Among our banner winners was HaSu Memiki, adding 1st & Res. Champ to her many awards. HaSu's other top winners included females, Qorianka, White Champ, Mitexi, Light Res.Champ, and HaSu Kanawha Dark Champ.
HaSu's Season Starts With a Splash of Blues & Purples by
With breeding season underway in concert with show season, we'd like to announce the stellar results at HaSu's first show of the season as a testament to the potency of our herdsires. At the '09 North American Alpaca Show our herdsires and their progeny made their triumphant way into the winner's circle.
Dimitri is Interviewed by
Receiving the Blanket by
Rushing the Gates! by
The Parade Begins by
HaSu Web Site Wins Design Award by
HaSu Ranch Alpacas' web site, www.hasu.biz, was named for an International Creativity Award of Excellence. Since 1971, The Creativity Annual has been a showcase for outstanding work in advertising and graphic design.
HaSu's sister company, Breedworks, designed the site. They are also proud to announce that designs for many other BreedWorks clients recieved awards as well.
HaSu makes donation by
HaSu Ranch Alpacas is proud to be included as a 2005 Platinum donor to the Quechua Benefit. Along with sister company, BreedWorks, HaSu Ranch Alpacas donated time and services to create the marketing and promotion of the charity.
Bagged Fleece by
Christmas Parade Amusement by
Clarice Can't Get Enough by
Dimitri's Interview Continues by
The Daily Star | SHOP TALK by Emily Farmer
Shop Talk is a weekly column in the Oneonta, New York Daily Star newspaper, featuring locally owned and operated businesses. They recently spoke with area business owners, Susan Muther and Hazen Reed, of HaSu Ranch, an alpaca ranch in East Meredith, and BreedWorks, a branding and marketing business.
A Pause in the Parade by
Clarice Is Still Eating by
Turning the Alpaca by
My Fans, My Fans by
Shearing Topknot by
The Camouflage Confuses Tatanka by
The Parade Crew Poses with Santa by
HaSu has Twins! by
The week of September 5th was very hectic for HaSu. We had 6 births on 5 different days- 4 expected and 2 complete surprises. The 1st surprise arrived Monday, when a cria arrived 45 days early. Wednesday our 2nd surpise arrived when our girl Shasta, had first a brown girl, and then to our amazement, a white boy.
Loving Fans by
Santa Inspects by
Shorn and Trimmed Head by
Who Are All of These People? by
Santa's Close Look at Shammie by
The Boys Go for the Grain by
The End by
The Shorn Alpaca by
HaSu's Show String Meets Milford School by
The Face-off by
The Shorn Blanket by
Coshocton Likes the Girls by
Jessica Triumphs by
Coshocton REALLY Likes the Girls by
Santa, Shammie and Joey by
Skirting the Fleece by
Ashie's Closeup by
Q'orianka Joins Coshocton by
The Folded Blanket by
Feeding the Alpacas by
Hiding by
Samson is Content with a Cuddle by
More HaSu Visitors by
The Parade Begins by
Santa Inspects from Behind by
Cowboys Right, Santas Left by
Jessica Sails Through by
Jessica and Joey with the Girls by
Smashing, aren't I by
Silly Lady by
Talasi, the Star by
Where am I? by
A New Dawn in the Ancient Andes by Mike Safley
The Michell Company, a vertically integrated Peruvian textile manufacturing conglomerate that is known to almost everyone associated with the specialty fiber business.
Alpaca Bedding by
If your farm is located in a cold climate, you will need to have some sort of ground covering/bedding for the alpacas to cush on during the winter. Their thermal zone, where they lose heat most, is around their bellies. So providing a warmer surface than bare soil, clay or concrete is essential.
Alpaca Facilities by Mike Safley
This excerpt taken from the book The Alpaca Shepherd, written by Mike Safley and illustrated by HaSu Ranch owner, Susan Muther, walks both new and experienced alpaca breeders through the process
of building barns and fences appropriate for alpacas. Susan's detailed diagrams and drawings clearly illustrate the successful techniques Mr. Safley has learned in his more than 15 years breeding alpacas, dozens of trips to Peru, and countless conversations with alpaca breeders from all around the world.
Alpaca Fiber from the Textile Point of View by Mike Safley
Once alpaca fleece is in the bag, what is it worth? Understanding what qualities the buyer desires most is the key to getting maximum value from alpaca fiber production.
alpaca halters by
We recommend adjustable (not fixed ring) halters, smaller rather than larger. 2-way adjustable is preferred. You will need one per alpaca.
Alpaca ID Tags & Collars by
Even though it may be easy for you to distinguish one of your alpacas from the another. There will come a time, when confusion arises. To avoid this, it is best to find some method to identify your alpacas, especially those that are just visiting perhaps to breed to your herdsire!
Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association by Alpacainfo.com
Alpaca Taxes 2008; Why Not Have Uncle Sam Help You Buy Your Alpacas by Mike Safley
Uncle Sam will pay for a portion of the cost of acquiring your herd, assuming
you are currently paying income tax and plan to continue paying income tax over
the next six years. Learn how the new
tax laws can benefit you when purchasing alpacas.
alpaca tip #22: selecting a herdsire by
The easiest way to improve your herd is through your selection of herd sires. A single herd sire can affect the quality of an entire generation of alpacas on your farm.
Breeding any livestock to reach specific goals requires a certain amount of knowledge and education. The science of genetics -- dominant vs. recessive traits, genotype vs. phenotype, breed type vs. breed standards, sire selection (prepotency and progeny testing), and the random nature of inheritance -- all make planning a breeding program seem quite complicated. But common sense, patience, and practical experience are part of a successful breeding program. You can drive yourself crazy with color, density, fineness, coverage, fleece weight, crimp(huacaya) or lock(suri).
Start simple. Focus on a one key trait first that you decide will ground your alpaca herd. Once you have established your goals, you can select herd sires that will help you accomplish those goals. Read more about Alpaca Herd Sire Selection.
For a guarantee, we look to dominant genes and more importantly, alpacas that are homozygous for their dominant trait, for example, please see our homozygous full-Accoyo suri male, Accoyo Tiago Primo.
alpaca tip #41: correct halter fit by
alpaca tip #48: hydration during transport by
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Prior to the trip, make sure your alpacas have had all the clean fresh water they want. During transport, they cush (lie down) while the vehicle is in motion and don't drink. Therefore, you should stop at least every 2 hours to offer them water. A good practice is to carry water from home with you. Water obtained along the trip may have a different mineral content. And your alpacas may find it unappealing and decide not to drink. The trip itself and the unfamiliar surroundings may already be creating stress for your alpacas, especially if they are new to traveling. The taste of strange water may add stress and worse cause them to become dehydrated. To prevent this, take enough water for a round trip. Large plastic water jugs with handles and spouts are ideal. You can even find some that are collapsible. |
alpaca tip #57: Planning for Heat by
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During the summer there are many ways to keep alpacas cool with shade being one of the easiest. Providing adequate shade should be a part of any farm planning. Trees obviously are a natural and readily available shade resource. If there are no trees available, artificial sources should be provided. When using artificial shade such as barns and shelters, we need to recreate the "tree" effect. Trees are tall and broad, allowing nearly unlimited movement of air. A tall roofed broad barn with excellent airflow creates a cool, comfortable environment. A good breeze is worth a thousand words. Take care to ensure the wind can get underneath the animals where their "thermal window" is located. Fans should blow across the barn at floor level (not down from above). Fans placed in series (e.g. all facing the same direction) can create a tunnel effect and cool the barn. Keeping several barn doors or windows open also helps create natural air movement and cooling throughout the barn. Barns should have cross-ventilation so that stagnation does not occur in any area. |
Breeding For Genetic Gain by Mike Safley
It is also important to understand how genetics, heritage, and the environment can influence the quality of our bloodstock. Understanding which genetic traits are present in the alpaca you are considering for purchase and what selection criteria to employ for individual animals can be valuable to both beginning and experienced breeders.
BreedWorks.biz by
BreedWorks, design and Internet marketing specialists, focuses on developing unique, differentiated presences for alpaca breeders worldwide. From logo development to complete e-commerce web sites, BreedWorks provides a full list of marketing and brand services.
Buena Vista Motel by
We offer comfortable, individually decorated rooms with a private bathroom, heating and air, wake-up calls, a data port, and cable TV. A complimentary breakfast is available in our dining room. There is a picnic area on our property and the famous West Branch of the Delaware River is within walking distance. We also allow pets.
Camelid Companion by Guide to training & handling
CameliDynamics by Animal Handling & Training
Catskill Game Farm by
The Catskill Game Farm exhibits 2000 animals and more than 150 different species from all over the world. They practice conservation and employ extensive breeding programs to preserve many endangered species. Since 1933 the Game Farm has impressed millions of visitors with up-close views of unusual and exotic animals.
Catskill Scenic Trails by
Christopher's Restaurant & Lodge by
At Christopher's Lodge every room is truly unique. Decorations include Adirondack style twig furniture, antler chandeliers, carved wood lamps, painted armoires, buffalo plaid flannels, and Ralph Lauren amenities. Their restaurant is known for their "mountain-sized portions" and rustic down home setting.
Clarion Hotel by
The Clarion Hotel Oneonta combines the luxuries and amenities of a modern hotel and the quaint setting and convenience of a historic downtown Inn. You can leave your car in the free parking lot because everything is within walking distance. From our front door you can venture down historic Main Street exploring Oneonta's shops, restaurants, taverns, and sports venues.
Cleansing Antiseptics by
Cleanliness is next to Godliness, the saying goes. And for good
livestock husbandry practices, cleanliness in all areas of your farm is
the key to maintaining your herd.
Common Household Items by
There are many extremely useful alpaca care items that can be found on
your own family's grocery list. These are inexpensive and easy to keep
in stock. And as you may find, invaluable when the time comes to use
them.
Cria Care by
Alpaca babies usually make their entrance into the world with little
fuss and muss from either mom, cria or even breeder. But there are
times, that special attention is needed around their arrival.
Cria Scale by
The best guides to a crias progress is its growth rate and activity
level. They should be weighed daily until they have doubled their birth
weight.
Don't Let Micron Madness Crimp Your Style by Mike Safley
Today, people are going from state to state and farm to farm selecting alpacas, often with only one thought in mind - what is the micron count? I can tell you that a histogram is absolutely and unequivocally irrelevant as the basis of evaluation for two different animals from two different farms.
Evolution & Origin of the Domestic Camelids by Jane Wheeler, PHD
To date the earliest evidence of camelid domestication comes from archaeological sites located between 4,000 and 4,900 m elevation, in the puna ecosystem of the Peruvian Andes.
Eye Care by
One of the most common issues an alpaca breeder has to deal with is eye
problems.
featured event: HaSu U: school of marketing by
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To Be Announced
Presenters:
Susan Muther, see bio
Hazen Reed, see bio |
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Whether you're just starting out or a veteran breeder, this seminar teaches you how to effectively market your alpacas, generate farm visits and sales. Today's alpaca market is increasingly competitive as more breeders come into the industry and the overall quality of the U.S. alpaca herd improves. A strong farm identity and marketing plan are essential for success. This seminar focuses on differentiating your farm, leveraging the Internet and integrating marketing efforts for maximum effect.
Learn more
Topics Include:
What is Marketing?
Successful Alpaca Marketing
Strategies to reach customers
Defining Your Farm Brand
What is Brand, why it's so important?
Interactive Session: Discovering what makes you different
Developing a Farm Logo
Successful Alpaca Logos
Integrated Marketing
What is it and why is it important?
Putting the Internet to work for you
E-marketing: Using the Internet to sell more alpacas
Elements of e-marketing
Your alpaca web site
Tracking and monitoring
Email Campaigning
Why use it? Using it Effectively
Guidelines for development
Hands-On Digital Photo Session
Digital Camera Basics
Image Resolution
Photography Basics
Working with alpacas
Resizing and retouching
and much, much more.
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Felting for Fun by Linda Long and Susan Muther
Felt is probably the oldest form of fabric. It can be made by hand by anyone without tools or complicated skills. The ancient technique of felting only requires a fiber of some kind, moisture, heat and pressure. Felt is particularly versatile and useful but it is also an excellent way to use up fiber remnants and have fun at the same time.
get a free web site by
If you buy 3 or more breeding alpacas at one time, HaSu Ranch Alpacas, through our sister company, BreedWorks will design a starter web site for your farm. It’s important to start your marketing program on the right foot. And the Internet is the best marketing tool alpaca breeders have today!
Glimmer Glass Opera by
The Glimmer Glass Opera was founded in 1975 through the efforts of Cooperstown locals. Since then it has grown to offer four operas each season and enjoys international recognition. The Metropolitan Opera house features sliding walls that open before performances and during intermission so the audience can enjoy the scenic countryside
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