Challis Hobbs: I’m 33, born in Logan, Utah. I grew up working on my family’s farm where we raised mink, fox, cattle, and crops like hay, pumpkins, watermelon, cantaloupe, and corn. I earned my undergraduate degree in business management from Brigham Young University and my MBA from Idaho State University, along with executive certificates from Harvard. I spent several years working for a global fur auction house and now serve as the Executive Director of Fur Commission USA.

Truth About Fur: North American fur farming has been criticised by animal rights groups for decades, but fur trade insiders know that these criticisms are inaccurate. How does the reality of fur farming today differ from the images perpetuated by animal rights groups?

Challis Hobbs: The reality of fur farming is that animal care is the farmer’s top priority. A farmer’s success depends directly on the health and wellbeing of their animals. If animals aren’t cared for properly, it shows in the pelt and lowers the farmer’s income. Today’s standards and husbandry principles are designed to give animals the best possible care so farmers can raise the best pelts and consumers can see and feel the value of the product.

Truth About Fur: Real fur compares favorably with synthetic or fake fur made from petroleum. Meanwhile, society is increasingly favoring sustainable products. Are consumers making the connection? Do they understand how fur is a truly sustainable product?

Challis Hobbs: Yes, I believe more people are making that connection. Those who research it, or who simply value natural products, recognize that real fur is sustainable, renewable, and biodegradable – and lasts for decades. Others may choose fur because they love how it looks and feels, but the trend toward sustainable and natural products only strengthens fur’s place in the market.