Misfit Ranch

Misfit Ranch are alpaca breeders in Loomis, CA, in Placer County near Sacramento. Owners Cyndi Howard and Mark Howard combine a love of fiber arts with a background in sustainable agriculture. They follow guidelines set by national alpaca associations and maintain routine health testing including annual cria vaccinations and fleece evaluations.

Their herd of 25 alpacas is pasture-raised on gently rolling pastures where daily handling and group interactions support calm temperaments. Both owners oversee breeding decisions, selecting for strong conformation and consistent fleece density that meets standards across regional shows. The ranch hosts small-group farm tours and workshops focused on alpaca care, fiber processing, and low-impact farming practices. Visitors note the welcoming atmosphere, thoughtful herd management, and quality of fleece produced on site. Balanced husbandry and a focus on education earn praise for the softness of the fiber and the well-being of the animals.