Nick Dotson is the co-owner of NLN Farms, LLC and has been immersed in aquaculture since he could walk. Growing up on the family farm, he followed his grandfather everywhere—feeding catfish, checking water quality, and helping with harvests. His fascination with the science behind catfish farming sparked a lifelong passion for the industry.

 

Guided by his mother’s lessons in conservation, Nick developed a deep respect for sustainable farming. When his grandfather retired and the catfish ponds closed, Nick’s drive to continue the family legacy grew stronger. With support from the NC Cooperative Extension and fellow crawfish growers, he stocked his first crawfish pond—and hasn’t looked back since.

 

Today, Nick’s grandfather remains a constant source of pride and wisdom. As Nick says, “My grandfather doesn’t work as much as he supervises these days but seeing him ride around the farm and witness what I’ve been able to accomplish means the world to me. Everything I know about fish farming, I learned from him.” 

Natalie Woolard is the backbone of NLN Farms, LLC, bringing exceptional organization, care, and leadership to the team. Her meticulous record-keeping and data tracking are vital to planning for future seasons, ensuring the farm runs smoothly year after year. Natalie also plays a key role in sales, going above and beyond to ensure every customer’s experience with NLN Farms is seamless and satisfying.

 

Her “mother’s instinct” shines through as she keeps the crew grounded and maintains a sharp eye on quality control—making sure every crawfish meets the farm’s high standards. Natalie’s tireless dedication, often working long hours both day and night, reflects her deep care for others and her commitment to the farm’s success.

 

As she puts it, “What many people don’t realize about a small farm is the generational wisdom that’s passed down. It’s not just about the farming practices—it’s about work ethic, how you treat people, and being proud of what you grow.”

 

Natalie’s passion and values are at the heart of NLN Farms, making her an indispensable part of the team and the farm’s continued success.

Kamden Watson, a longtime friend of Nick’s, is entering his fourth season with NLN Farms, LLC. As the farm’s pond manager, Kamden oversees the daily operations of the crawfish ponds—closely monitoring crawfish behavior, weather patterns, and harvest trends to finetune “potting” conditions and maximize yields.

 

Crawfish farming presents a unique challenge. Unlike row crops or livestock, you can’t see or count the crawfish—each day requires educated guesses, quick decisions, and trust in experience. Kamden thrives in this unpredictable environment, working alongside Nick to stay one step ahead of nature.