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The second distinct physical environment is distinguished by pale yellow vegetation, beige to red-brown rock formations along the coast, and barren black lava fields. Amid these rugged and desert like conditions, there are pockets of white sand beaches along the rocky coast. Waikoloa Village, along with the major resort areas, is located in the dry southern region of the district. LANDFORMS The major landforms of the South Kohala district and their distinguishing characteristics include: Kohala Mountains: The Kohala Mountains were created from the eruptions of the Kohala Volcano. The Kohala Volcano last erupted approximately 60,000 years ago. The oldest lava has been dated at 460,000 yeazs old. The volcano is extinct and in the erosional stage of its life cycle. Its eastern windward flank is chazacterized by great erosional valleys, spectaculaz waterfalls, and dramatic sea cliffs. The rubble of a dramatic landslide extends fifty miles out on the ocean floor. The mountain's leeward southwesterly side is within the South Kohala district. This side of the mountain is more gently sloping and smooth. The town of Waimea, pasture lands, and farm lands exist on these gentle slopes. The summit elevation of the Kohala Mountains is 5,480 feet. Puu: The Kohala Mountain rift zone extends southeastward from its summit into the district in the vicinity of Waimea. The last eruptions were moderately explosive and formed a series of large cinder cones (puu) that accent the Kohala Mountain and plateau in the surrounding area of Waimea. A number of puu are also scattered along the Saddle Road and are associated with Mauna Kea. Coastal beaches dot the otherwise rocky, jagged coastline. Sandy beaches can be found near Anaehoomalu, Waialea Bay, Puako, Hapuna State Pazk, Kaunaoa, Mauumae, and Ohaiyula (Spencer Beach Pazk). There are several man made beaches located at the resort nodes. Much of the coastline is defined by old lava flows that have entered into the ocean. Marine seascape: The diverse coral reef communities that occupy the nearshore waters of South Kohala distinguish the district from other districts on the island. These unique marine environments support an extensive reef system populated by a variety of species. Tidal pools, rock formations, and ancient fishponds are also prominent features of South Kohala. GENERAL DEVELOPMENT PATTERNS IN THE DISTRICT South Kohala's general land development pattern varies greatly between the district's two main population centers: Waimea Town and Waikoloa Village. Waimea Town is a rural community that has a long and proud history. It is situated on a plateau of the Kohala Mountains. Waikoloa Village is a relatively new, more urbanized residential community. Waikoloa Village was originally designed to be a retirement community when it was developed in 1971. However, due in part to the expansion of upscale hotels, restaurants, and shops along the South Kohala coast, and the corresponding housing needs of these employees, Waikoloa Village has evolved into a suburban community for residents of all ages. Community members from Waikoloa Village note that the Village is isolated from other