Check Out Debra Stall’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Debra Stall

Hi Debra, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I bought Dixon Creek Farm land in 2013. I have been knitting and weaving for a long time and fell in love with alpaca fiber. I started researching how to raise alpaca by visiting other farms, and eventually found a wonderful mentor and they helped me so much. There is so much to learn about alpaca, in the foods they eat, pasture management, summer heat and fiber processing. Every year in the spring we shear our alpaca and process their wonderful fiber into yarn. Most of my alpaca are either white or fawn, so dying the yarn yields great results. I knit hats, sweaters. and other fine garments that are heirloom pieces. I also teach weaving and knitting lessons here in the farm store. We built the farm store in 2023 and opened in spring 2024. The store also has our Dixon Creek Farm gourmet oils and vinegars, a line of luxury teas and candles, among other wonderful items. We host visitors from all over the country who stop by and visit the alpaca. Sitting on one of our many decks, in the foothills of the Cumberland Plateau is a great way to spend the evening. I love my farm and what it has become, and will continue to add more alpaca.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Weather can be brutal here in Tennessee with tornadoes and heavy rains. But the alpaca don’t seem to mind. We have lost a couple of alpaca due to heat stress in the past. It’s always devastating to lose one when you get so attached. Winters can also be hard with water freezing so we overcame that obstacle with heated buckets.

Also in 2023, I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, so keeping up a farm would not have been possible without the help of my 3 wonderful sons. My friends and family also came from all over the country to help me through this grueling time. I thank them so much for helping me.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My career has been in healthcare revenue cycle management for the past 40 years. I have been a COO and have worked with hospital systems all over the US. I now work for an international outsourcing firm and truly love what I do. I travel to India and absolutely love the Indian culture. I have made worldwide friends who also come to visit my farm!

I am proud of my little Dixon Creek Farm and what we have developed here. It is a short distance from Nashville and a quiet place to relax and enjoy.

How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Social medi is a great vehicle for awareness to the public but expanding the followers is an area I need help. Also help in marketing my farm in other outlets.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.Dixoncreekfarm.com
• Instagram: @dixon_creek_farm
• Facebook: Dixon Creek Farm