O'ahu-based engineering firm Zapata Inc. has assumed base camp and maintenance operations on Kaho'olawe for the Kaho'olawe Island Reserve Commission.

The company earlier was awarded the contract through the state to help the commission continue restoration work on the island long used as a target for military bombing exercises. Eric Brundage, general manager of Zapata's Kailua office, is project manager for the new assignment.