Texas Entrepreneurs Build Maryland's Largest Alpaca Operation with Sustainable Agriculture Vision

Yussy and Travis McManus, former Texas construction company owners, have established Maryland's largest alpaca operation after closing their construction business in 2020. Their 50-acre Black Barn Alpacas agritourism destination attracted over 20,000 visitors during its inaugural fall festival, showcasing the growing market for sustainable agricultural experiences.

The couple's transition to alpaca farming emerged from both personal connection and recognized business potential. After extensive farm visits, they became captivated by the animals' sustainable qualities. Alpacas produce hypoallergenic, antimicrobial, and thermoregulating fiber while requiring fewer resources than traditional livestock. The farm's retail operation features this natural fiber transformed into various products available at https://blackbarnalpacas.com.

What began as a simple farming operation rapidly evolved into a multifaceted agritourism business. The unexpected success of their first fall festival, which received media attention from several news stations and the Texas TV show "YOLO TX," prompted the McManuses to expand their offerings. They relocated from Texas to Maryland primarily for animal welfare considerations, as the Texas climate proved challenging for their alpacas.

The farm now operates multiple revenue streams essential for agricultural sustainability. Educational programs address contemporary challenges, with research showing nearly 39% of teens reporting anxiety from social media and half of Gen Z students feeling disengaged in school. Farm tours integrate math, science, and sustainability into hands-on activities while providing social-emotional learning opportunities through programs like PATHS® (Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies).

Seasonal events including "Fall 'Ag'tivities," "Easter Egg'stravaganza," and "Fleece Navidad" attract diverse visitors alongside summer camps, shearing demonstrations, and wellness experiences such as yoga and guided mindfulness walks. The farm also hosts corporate retreats, book clubs, and special celebrations, utilizing alpaca interactions to enhance team building and community connections.

Beyond immediate business success, the McManuses envision transforming American agriculture toward more sustainable, animal-friendly practices. They address criticisms of alpaca farming, particularly regarding shearing practices. Veterinary experts confirm the medical necessity of shearing, as unshorn alpacas can suffer life-threatening heat stress during summer months.

The couple advocates for responsible alpaca farming where animals are handled gently and sheared quickly by professionals. They emphasize that synthetic fabrics carry their own animal welfare consequences, as microplastics from synthetic textiles enter waterways and harm marine life. Alpaca farming represents one of the most sustainable agricultural forms, requiring significantly less water, land, and energy than traditional livestock while maintaining carbon-neutral operations.

The McManuses' vision includes creating a domestic manufacturing industry for alpaca products, currently processed primarily in Peru and Bolivia. This development could generate American employment opportunities, reduce shipping emissions, and maintain high animal welfare standards. Their educational mission transforms visitors into advocates for sustainable agriculture, demonstrating how business success, animal welfare, and environmental responsibility can coexist effectively.