POTSDAM - The Dear Alpaca Farm, which opened at 369 Parmenter Road in 2004 will be closing at the end of the year. The owners are currently selling their merchandise, equipment and animals in preparation for the closing.

Owners Sharon L. and James H. Dear decided to close their farm in June, after James was diagnosed with cancer.

“I”m going to retire early and we’re going to go travelling,” Mrs. Dear said.

As long as Mr. Dear’s health permits, the couple plans to spend 2013 vising national parks and other attractions around the United States, like the Grand Canyon.

The sale began during Potsdam’s SummerFest on July 13, with alpaca-wool socks, jackets and other clothing at reduced prices. They have also sold nine alpacas since announcing their intention to close.

The couple plans to sell their farming equipment and the remaining 23 alpacas at auction on August 11. The farm will officially close on December 31.

Any merchandise that is not sold by the time the farm closes will likely be purchased by other retailers.

“There are several people who want to go into the store business, who want any merchandise we have left,” Mr. Dear said.

Although he is excited to travel, Mr. Dear said closing the farm was a tough decision.

“I’m not looking forward to it,” he said. “I love the animals so much, so I guess I’ll take it one day at a time.”

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