The Lasting Impact of Jerry Forstner
The original I Love Alpacas campaign had a lasting impact on the alpaca industry. Jerry's efforts created a foundation for countless businesses and this impact didn't stop there. These original farms and ranches became mentors for the alpaca owners of today.
One man with a crazy idea started a movement. Here are a few examples of the impact...
Jody Hatch, Mountain Management
"Jerry Forstner’s ‘I Love Alpacas’ campaign was the spark that first drew me into the alpaca industry. His passion and vision were contagious, and he had a way of making you feel like you were part of something bigger. At shows, Jerry would often pull me aside and ask, ‘Where do you see this industry going?’ — a simple question that always challenged me to think bigger and lead with purpose. His influence shaped my path, and I’m grateful to carry forward the legacy he helped build."
Bari Padgett, Paragon Alpacas
"I have been involved with the alpaca industry since 1998 and had the pleasure of knowing Jerry for over 2 decades. One of the things I appreciated most about him was his willingness to share information and advice. Anytime I asked if I could pick his brain on some aspect of the alpaca business from selling alpacas to agritourism, he didn't hesitate to share any information that could help me along!"
Gina Glasscock, Legendary Alpacas
"My journey with alpacas started with a desire to identify the appropriate livestock to help us keep an Ag exemption on our newly acquired property. I had decided that cows, goats, and sheep weren’t right. Then, my mom called and said she wanted to visit an alpaca farm. To be honest, I had to Google “What is an alpaca?” We visited the closest farm participating in National Alpaca Farm Day, and I fell in love. Jerry’s “I Love Alpacas” campaign opened the door for what became a turning point in my life’s direction. Just as Jerry was a tremendous mentor, I have tried to pay that forward as a mentor to new farms. His impact was so far-reaching and made the industry better."