Michael Lorash
Red Lodge
Summary
Dynamic Ranch Manager with over 25 years of experience in livestock production, ranch operations, hospitality, and land stewardship. Proven ability to lead large-scale cow/calf operations, manage diversified ranch properties, and oversee teams in both agricultural and construction environments. Skilled in grazing management, infrastructure development, financial oversight, and operational planning. Strong communicator with a hands-on leadership style focused on efficiency, accountability, and long-term sustainability. Committed to improving land health, livestock performance, and team development through practical, results-driven management.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Heavy Equipment Operator
Gairrett Excavation and Trucking
Columbus
04.2024 - Current
- Operate excavators, dozers, loaders, and motor graders for excavation and site preparation
- Haul materials using end dump, side dump, belly dump, and RGN trailers (up to 133,000 lbs)
- Perform pre-operation inspections and routine equipment servicing
- Coordinated loading/unloading of gravel, sand, and waste materials across job sites to ensure timely project progress
- Perform construction, excavation, and fence building projects
- Maintained detailed records of labor, materials, and project completion to support accurate reporting and accountability
- Develop operational procedures to ensure quality and efficiency standards
- Conduct cost analysis and support project budgeting
- Negotiate vendor pricing and material procurement
- Consulted on land stewardship, cattle operations, and ranch development to enhance operational effectiveness and sustainability
Owner / Operator
Bar T Ranch Services
Red Lodge
09.2023 - Current
- Supported clients in cattle management, developed grazing systems, and managed infrastructure projects
- Deliver hands-on ranch services including fencing, excavation, and equipment operation
- Provide ranch consulting, land stewardship, and operational services
Operations Manager
Nelson Log Restoration
Cody
01.2023 - 08.2023
- Managed daily operations and workforce scheduling
- Established communication systems to clarify project scope, cost, and client expectations
- Supervised crews, ensuring adherence to quality standards on restoration projects
- Developed and nurtured strong vendor and client relationships to support operational success
Ranch Manager
4K Ranch
Fishtail
01.2007 - 01.2023
- Oversaw diversified ranch operations encompassing cattle management, land stewardship, infrastructure maintenance, and guest services enhancement
- Managed herd health, calving, breeding programs, and livestock performance
- Oversaw pasture rotation, grazing systems, irrigation improvements, and land health
- Developed and implemented horse training programs for guest riding operations
- Recruited, hired, and trained staff across culinary, housekeeping, and maintenance teams to ensure seamless ranch operations
- Created and enforced emergency response plans (fire, livestock, guest evacuation)
- Ensured compliance with water rights, NF permits, building permits, and 310 permits
- Negotiated contracts for construction, food service, logging, road building, and fire mitigation to optimize resource allocation and operational efficiency
- Maintained equipment, vehicles, irrigation systems, and ranch infrastructure
- Managed financial, operational, and employment records
- Attended industry training including Ranching for Profit
- Stabilized roads, skid trails, and stream crossings; completed bridge and infrastructure improvements
- Conducted regular inspections and preventative maintenance across ranch systems
Board Member / Chairman
Stillwater Valley Watershed Council
Fishtail
01.2010 - 01.2017
- Developed strategic goals and long-term planning initiatives to align with organizational mission
- Conducted board meetings and prepared agendas to facilitate effective organizational leadership
- Led public outreach and fundraising efforts to enhance community engagement and support for initiatives
- Promoted organizational mission, conservation goals, and community engagement
- Reviewed financial reports and monitored budget performance
Education
Ranching for Profit
Billings, MT01-2021
Range Science and Management
Montana State University
Bozeman, MT01-1995
Skills
- Livestock Management & Production
- Pasture & Grazing Management
- Regenerative Grazing Systems
- Herd Health & Disease Prevention
- Budget Development & Financial Analysis
- Strategic & Operational Planning
- Staff Hiring, Training & Development
- Documentation & Record Keeping
- Equipment Operation & Maintenance
- Contract Negotiation & Vendor Management
- Guest Services & Hospitality Operations
Accomplishments
Top Trainer - Horse Affairs Equine Expo (Boise, ID), 2006 & 2007
Activities
- High School & College Basketball Official
- High School Football Official
Timeline
Heavy Equipment Operator
Gairrett Excavation and Trucking
04.2024 - Current
Owner / Operator
Bar T Ranch Services
09.2023 - Current
Operations Manager
Nelson Log Restoration
01.2023 - 08.2023
Board Member / Chairman
Stillwater Valley Watershed Council
01.2010 - 01.2017
Ranch Manager
4K Ranch
01.2007 - 01.2023
Ranching for Profit
Range Science and Management
Montana State University