ASAP likes to share the stories of people who help us fulfill our mission. This month, we talk with Tracy Cotton, a farm and small business account executive for Morrow Insurance Agency in Marion, NC. In addition to speaking at the Business of Farming Conference, Tracy is a dedicated ASAP volunteer!
Q: How are you involved with ASAP and local food and farms?
I began volunteering with ASAP in 2016. I am a Farm to Fork Insurance Agent in WNC so I am connected to the community by occupation, but also by passion. I chose to focus on farms, food manufacturing, craft beverage, restaurants, and food retailers because I love being part of protecting and connecting. Personally, I grew up in middle Tennessee with farming cousins and enjoyed many weekends helping out (or at least enjoyed the freedom of walking their many acres of pasture).
Q: You’re co-presenting a workshop on Hosting Events and Dinners on Your Farm at our Business of Farming Conference in February. What will you be talking about?
I’ll be moderating, so mostly I’m there to keep things flowing and in case there are questions on risk management. The panel is stellar and I can’t wait to hear the experiences and wisdom of the individual farms represented.
Q: Can you share a favorite farm dinner or farm event memory?
I am a HUGE fan of ASAP’s Farm Tour and my favorite destination is Smoking J’s pepper farm in Candler. They know how to put on a delicious spread including some of their sauces. Plus, their operation is fascinating.
Q: What have you learned in the past from attending the Business of Farming Conference?
This will be my third year attending and speaking. I could be biased but I believe the content and quality of the workshops is far above the norm. In one day there are so many great speakers, networking, and resources, it’s an incredible bargain—did I mention the food? Maybe I shouldn’t so there is more left for me. Just kidding!
Visit asapconnections.org to register for the 2019 Business of Farming Conference, Feb 23, at the AB Tech Conference Center in Asheville, NC.