The Army said it plans to detonate three bombs on Dec. 3 that were found in Makua Valley, a step that it said will allow the resumption of cultural access visits by civilian groups.

A fused World War II 250-pound bomb was found Nov. 1 during a sweep to clear roads and trails leading to cultural sites in the military training range. Also discovered were an 81-mm mortar round and a 106-mm anti-tank round.

The military reservation was immediately closed for safety to everyone except those involved in explosive ordnance disposal and security, the Army said.

As a result, the Army also said, it was necessary to cancel the Nov. 16-17 opening of the annual Makahiki, a four-month traditional Hawaiian religious and holiday observance.

A 2001 settlement agreement with community group Malama Makua requires cultural access in the 4,190-acre valley, which has hundreds of archaeological sites.

"We think that the Army should have tried to expedite this to avoid the disruption to the Makahiki celebration," said David Henkin of Earthjustice, who represents Malama Makua.

Henkin noted that the Army found the 250-pound bomb three weeks ago.

"We don't see any reason why they needed to wait until the conclusion of the (unexploded ordnance sweep) ... to try and expeditiously move forward with removing what they claim is a threat to public safety," Henkin said.

The sweep, and one completed last fall, were part of a two-phase Army effort at Makua. The total cost of the sweep was $412,472 and encompassed 5,520 man-hours.

Because of the valley's archaeological sites, the Army said it has to follow National Historic Preservation Act guidelines, but is requesting an expedited seven-day review of its proposed demolition and site protection in lieu of the standard 30-day consultation period.

The Army also has to comply with other regulations, including those of the Endangered Species Act.

To minimize the blast area, the Army said it will place more than 10,000 sand bags around the bombs. An additional 1,000 sandbags will be used to protect a petroglyph in that area. "Our intent is to remove the bomb as safely and expeditiously as possible," the Army said in a release. "As soon as this is completed, we will once again allow access."

Reach William Cole at wcole@honoluluadvertiser.com.