KIHEI, Maui — The disposal of unexploded ordnance on Molokini originally scheduled for today has been postponed due to weather and Native Hawaiian concerns, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The operation has been rescheduled for Feb. 7.

Fish and Wildlife spokeswoman Barbara Maxfield said high winds and rough seas make it risky for a Navy helicopter to bring explosives to Molokini for the operation, and the remaining ordnance disposal team will have to access the island by boat.

"Safety is our highest priority, so delaying the activity seems prudent," she said.

The agency also is taking time to consult with some Native Hawaiians who are seeking more information on the project and are concerned about its impact on possible archaeological features.

The parties met Monday, and Maui kupuna Uncle Leslie Kuloloio said he visited Molokini yesterday with an archaeologist and officials to determine whether further archaeological and cultural studies are needed.

He also said there are issues about Molokini's connection to nearby Kaho'olawe, a place of important cultural and spiritual significance to Native Hawaiians.

Maxfield said, "We are working with him and others to address those concerns, and hopefully all will be resolved by Feb. 7."

A 250-pound bomb, a 105 mm projectile and a 5-inch rocket were found during surface surveys by the Navy completed in December 2006 and March 2007 and done at the request of the Fish and Wildlife Service.

The removal is necessary for Molokini to become an "overlay unit" attached to Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge.

Maxfield said the ordnance disposal also is needed to protect the state wildlife biologists who visit the island to band seabirds that nest and roost there, and the Coast Guard personnel who maintain navigational aids there.

Reach Christie Wilson at cwilson@honoluluadvertiser.com.