<P> Most of the island's economy is based on tourism, centered primarily in resort areas on the western coast of the island in the North Kona and South Kohala districts . More recently, Hawaiʻi Island has become a focus for sustainable tourism . </P> <P> Diversified agriculture is a growing sector of the economy . Major crops include macadamia nuts, papaya, flowers, tropical and temperate vegetables, and coffee beans . Only coffee grown in the Kona District of this island may be branded Kona coffee . The island's orchid agriculture is the largest in the state, and resulted in the unofficial nickname "The Orchid Isle". The island is home to one of the United States' largest cattle ranches: Parker Ranch, on 175,000 acres (708 km) in Waimea . The island is also known for astronomy, with numerous telescopes operated on the summit of Mauna Kea, where atmospheric clarity is excellent and there is little light pollution . </P> <P> NELHA (Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority), a 675 - acre (273 ha) state developed site, is a green economic development ocean science and technology park on the west side of the island . It provides resources and facilities for energy and ocean - related research, education, and commercial activities in an environmentally sound and culturally sensitive manner . Business tenants on this coastal site include microalgae farms, aquaculture, solar technology and marine biotech . Tenants have access to three sets of pipelines delivering deep - sea water from a depth of up to 3,000 feet (910 m), as well as pristine sea surface water and almost constant sunshine . A 2012 study by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization (UHERO) found the total economic impact of activities at NELHA was $87.7 million and created 583 jobs . </P> <P> According to the county's 2010 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, the top employers in the county are: </P>

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