Our Story

More than a ranch, a legacy. Our centuries-old story honors the rich history of the land and our long-standing commitment to stewardship and community involvement.

John Palmer Parker, an enterprising American sailor, alongside Kipikane, his wife and the granddaughter of King Kamehameha the Great, began with a contract to manage wayward cattle. Nearly two centuries later, Parker Ranch has evolved into one of the largest and most respected pasture-raised cattle ranching operations in the United States.

Cattle Operations

Parker Ranch, one of the oldest and most renowned cattle ranches in the United States, operates on over 135,000 acres on Hawai‘i Island. As both a scaled grass-fed beef producer and the 6th largest calf producer in the United States, Parker Ranch plays a vital role in the beef industry. The ranch’s operations are pasture-based, with the cattle grazing primarily on kikuyu, pangola, and buffelgrass, which are well-suited to the island’s climate and terrain.

The ranch’s herd primarily consists of Black Angus cattle, complemented by strategic infusions of Simental and Charolais genetics. These carefully selected breeds are adapted to the unique and varied environment of North Hawai‘i, ensuring that the cattle thrive and produce high-quality beef. Parker Ranch develops its own breeding stock and bull battery, sourcing some of the finest genetics available to ensure that both the cattle and the beef they produce meet the highest standards.

By blending traditional ranching wisdom with modern agricultural techniques, Parker Ranch upholds its historic legacy while also embracing ethical practices. This dedication not only honors the ranch’s rich history but also contributes to the economic prosperity of the island. The natural, stress-free environment provided by the ranch’s pasture-based operations ensures the well-being of the cattle, resulting in consistently high-quality beef.

Parker Ranch is dedicated to providing a world-class eating experience for consumers. With a focus on excellence in every aspect of its operations, Parker Ranch continues to be a leader in the cattle industry while maintaining a strong connection to its roots and the community it serves.

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Horses

The primary goal of the Parker Ranch Horse program is to produce safe, functional, durable work horses to be used on our large-scale cow calf operation by Parker Ranch cowboys. Without the horses, the operations of the ranch would be nearly impossible. Additionally, in alignment with our overall mission, we aim to provide the community with horses to fulfill their work and performance needs. Each year, hundreds gather at our Labor Day Horse Auction to bid on both prospects and finished horses. The Ranch takes immense pride in being the best and most trusted place to find quality ranch horses in the Hawai‘i community.

Parker Ranch has been a lifetime member of the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) since the early 1960s, having produced it’s first registered Quarter Horse in 1955. In 2021, the ranch was recognized as a 50-year Cumulative Breeder. As one of the largest horse breeders in Hawai‘i, it has expanded the beneficial reach and impact of AQHA to our island home in the middle of the Pacific. Over the years, the ranch has hosted many AQHA competitions, and the Parker Ranch Arena is still often utilized by AQHA members for local rodeos and NHSRA events.

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Natural Resource Management

Since our first land grant by King Kamehameha I, land management has been central to our purpose. We emphasize conservation, restoration, and sustainable use practices. Forests, as essential components of our ecosystem, play a critical role in maintaining environmental balance. Recognizing that forest health reflects overall ecosystem vitality, Parker Ranch is committed to preserving these natural resources.

As part of this commitment, Parker Ranch has embarked on a reforestation initiative aimed at restoring native Hawaiian forests on ranch lands on the slopes of Mauna Kea. Central to this effort is the cultivation of Māmane trees, which are crucial to the survival of the critically endangered Palila bird and hold deep cultural significance in Native Hawaiian history.

Parker Ranch continues their commitment for future reforestation projects, with a focus on enhancing the resilience and sustainability of its diverse landscapes demonstrating our steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship.

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Our Trust and Mission

Parker Ranch operates under a charitable trust, an enduring legacy established to care for the resources and ensure their long-term sustainability. The mission and guiding principles of the Parker Ranch Foundation Trust are rooted in environmental responsibility, cultural preservation, and community engagement. Land management, thoughtful community development, and forward-thinking investment in education and healthcare are the cornerstones of the trust’s commitment to a vibrant and thriving Waimea.

The Trust supports four beneficiaries: Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy, Parker School, Queens’ North Hawai‘i Community Hospital, and Hawai‘i Community Foundation.

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Our Commitment to the Waimea Community

Since 1847, Parker Ranch’s environmental, economic, and cultural contributions have shaped the character of our beloved Waimea. We engage in initiatives that promote mindful growth, ecological awareness, healthcare, and education through strong partnerships with local stakeholders. Our dedication to the well-being of Waimea is woven into the fabric of everything we do, ensuring a vibrant and thriving community for generations to come.

Today, Parker Ranch continues to honor the vision of those who charted our path.