Michael Para has supported the Department of Animal Sciences and Washington’s beef industry for many years. He has encouraged education and innovation by hosting class tours and research projects at his feedyard and has served as an advocate with various industry organizations. The department recognizes Para’s outstanding efforts and dedication by honoring him with the 2026 Distinguished Service Award.
Para’s connection to Washington’s beef community spans generations. After his family emigrated from Italy and settled near Othello in 1913, his father, John, established the original feedlot. Building on this legacy, Para assumed leadership of the ranch and feedlot in 1980 at age 22. He expanded the operation from a 1,500-head grow yard to a 7,000-head finishing yard feeding both his own and client-owned cattle. He focused on sustainability by sourcing local products. Because his feedlot was smaller than most, he could add a personal touch to cattle care, and that same hands-on approach shaped how he worked with both customers and employees.
This hands-on, people-first mindset is also what Para points to when he talks about his proudest accomplishment: lasting relationships. He has served customers across the Pacific Northwest for over two decades, including some he has never met in person. At Para Livestock, this loyalty extends to employees, many of whom spend their entire careers with the company. One key team member has been with Para for 30 years.
“My employees are family,” Para said, noting that he has enjoyed watching their children grow up over the years.
Now, Para and his wife, Liz, have decided to retire by closing their cattle-feeding business and selling the feedlot, ending a chapter that saw even their children involved before they pursued other careers. As they seek the right buyer for the feedlot, a bittersweet step tied to recognition for their longstanding efforts, their commitment to the cattle industry continues at the family’s original 8,000-acre ranch, where they run 800 cows and raise and sell cutting horses.