Lay It, Shape It, Rock It!
Gravel Road Basics is a hands-on adventure in building and maintaining the backbone of any rural property: a solid gravel road. Over three action-packed hours, you’ll get to grips with 30 yards of gravel, a skid steer, and your own two hands. No previous heavy equipment experience needed—just a good attitude and closed-toe boots! We’ll teach you everything from crowning to compacting, with a laser focus on staying safe and working smart.
When: We’ll schedule this workshop again when we get at least 6 pre-registrants.
Where: Bend/Redmond
Pre-registration Price: $135
Full Price: $149
Supplies Fee: $175
Get First in Line! Pre-Register!
Pre-registration is free; we only charge your credit card when we’re ready to schedule (and you say ok). When 6 people pre-register, we’ll set up the next workshop!
The Details
Build Strong Roads, Ground Up
Get familiar with the anatomy of a well-built gravel road! We’ll cover drainage, crowning, and layering—giving you the building blocks for a durable and low-maintenance surface that won’t wash away in the first big rain.
Hands-On Heavy Experience
You’ll drive a skid steer, spread and shape gravel, and pick up pro techniques for working safely around machinery. Whether you’re dreaming of your own homestead driveway or helping out on the ranch, you’ll leave with real-world skills you can trust.
Road Maintenance For Real
Learn the basics of keeping your road in good shape season after season. We’ll show you simple, practical strategies that protect your investment and keep your wheels turning year-round—without expensive repairs.
Workshop Leader
Austin Nahale
Growing up around heavy equipment sparked a lifelong passion for the industry in Austin Nahale. After graduating high school, he joined the Marine Corps, and upon returning, began his career as an operator from the ground up. In 2017, Austin moved to Central Oregon and continued to build his expertise in the field. Over the years, he has gained extensive experience in mining, residential excavation, and heavy civil projects. Today, he serves as a foreman for a heavy civil excavation contractor. His deep passion for heavy equipment drives his commitment to sharing his knowledge and hands-on experience with others
Partners
Pro Rental & Sales – Redmond
Pro Rentals & Sales is your trusted regional partner for high-quality equipment rentals, with a convenient location in Redmond, Oregon and branches throughout the Northwest. Whether you’re tackling a large construction project or a home improvement job, their knowledgeable team helps you get the right tools for the job—saving you time and money.
McKernan Enterprises
Founded in 2000 by Jaron McKernan, McKernan Enterprises has grown into one of Central Oregon’s leading heavy civil contractors. We specialize in land development, infrastructure construction, and excavation services for commercial, industrial, and residential projects. Built on integrity, craftsmanship, and strong relationships, our team delivers high-quality, dependable results that add value to every project and strengthen the communities we serve.
In The News!
See Kaleb Watson in the News!
Enjoy this piece by Steve Werblow of The Furrow and get a feel for this fantastic workshop. Learn more about School of Ranch as a whole!
Join school of ranch
Save 20% On This Workshop!
Join School of Ranch and get 20% off all workshops for a year. Your membership helps us cover our costs. Being non-profit doesn’t mean you can lose money! We need your support and nothing shows support as much as a membership.
frequently asked questions
What should I wear?
Closed-toe work boots are required. Gloves and sun protection are highly recommended. Long pants are a good idea to protect your legs from gravel and tools.
What should I bring?
Bring water, snacks, gloves, and your phone (for watching the slideshow). If you have a favorite rake or shovel, feel free to bring it along.
Can kids attend?
No. Due to the use of heavy equipment and active site work, this workshop is for adults only.
Will there be food?
No potluck is planned, so please bring your own water and snacks. There will be a short break but no designated mealtime.
What is School of Ranch?
School of Ranch is a Central Oregon based 501c3 nonprofit. We hire experienced locals to teach practical and artisan skills, live and in person. Beyond teaching skills and helping grow our workshop leader’s businesses, we create common ground for neighbors. School of Ranch brings together people regardless of politics, age, background or beliefs.