The commission was created by the Legislature to manage the 28,800-acre island and surrounding waters while they are held in trust until Native Hawaiians establish a sovereign entity. Among other duties, the commission was charged with coordinating the environmental restoration of the reserve and for state supervision of the cleanup.

Last November, the Navy completed its $400 million cleanup of unexploded ordnance and turned over the island to the state. It marked the first time in 63 years that the military did not have control of Kaho'olawe.

Enomoto played a key role in the cleanup and also helped to develop a five-year strategic plan for management and restoration activities. The commission also was involved in the completion of an access and risk management plan, adoption of administrative rules for the reserve, and construction of a $3 million water catchment system.

Dr. Noa Emmett Aluli, commission chairman, praised Enomoto's dedication and said he will be missed. Aluli was a founder of Protect Kaho'olawe 'Ohana, which protested the Navy's use of Kaho'olawe in the 1970s and 1980s.

"He's been more than a great administrator; he's been a good friend to those he worked with and has listened to the voice of the island," Aluli said. "His commitment and mana'o on a variety of issues are greatly appreciated and will be sorely missed."

Enomoto credited Aluli, vice chairwoman Colette Machado and other commissioners with building a strong foundation "to ensure that the island is restored in a culturally appropriate and safe manner."