Parker Ranch is asking for proposals from businesses that would like to take over several historic ranch properties in Waimea on the Big Island and operate them in a way that boosts income for the ranch and the charities it supports.

The ranch is seeking proposals for the 10,000-square-foot ranch headquarters as well as for Mana Hale, the New England-style historic home of John Palmer Parker that dates back almost 160 years.

"The Parker Ranch Headquarters building may present a unique opportunity for astronomy, education, health and wellness and other corporate and entrepreneurial endeavors," according to a statement from the ranch.

Also being offered for lease is Pu'u'opelu, a home built in 1862 and later expanded to almost 8,000 square feet. Now furnished with European heirloom furniture, crystal chandeliers and an art collection, the property is open for self-guided tours and special events.

The ranch also is seeking proposals for the Parker Ranch Museum & Visitor Center, which is housed in leased space in the Parker Ranch Center shopping area.

In all, the Parker Ranch properties host nearly 50,000 visitors a year, and an announcement by the ranch said proposals for the properties should "demonstrate strong revenue generation opportunities and emphasize Parker Ranch's paniolo heritage."

"Operators, entrepreneurs, innkeepers, restaurateurs and other interested parties are encouraged to apply," according to a statement from the ranch.

Parker Ranch was founded in 1847, and with 175,000 acres is one of the oldest and largest cattle ranches in the nation. After the 1992 death of the ranch's last owner, Richard Smart, the ranch and Smart's extensive art collection were left in a trust.

The beneficiaries of the Parker Ranch Foundation Trust include Parker School Trust Corporation, Hawai'i Preparatory Academy, Hawai'i Community Foundation's Richard Smart Fund and the North Hawai'i Community Hospital.

Concept papers from interested businesses are due Nov. 30. For more details, call Diane Quitiquit at (808) 885-2303 or visit www.ParkerRanch.com and click on Request For Qualifications.