The Army next month plans to blow up several bombs that were found in Makua Military Reservation — a discovery that prevented Hawaiian practitioners from observing the Makahiki.

But the detonation of the old ordnance won't remove the increasing acrimony felt by some community members over cultural access to the 4,190-acre Waianae Coast valley, and it could land the Army in court again.

"We're getting to the point of going back to court because there is no excuse for their (the Army's) continued foot-dragging," said David Henkin, an Earthjustice attorney.

Henkin, who represents community group Malama Makua, maintains the Army is violating a 2001 settlement agreement, adding, "We've notified them of that fact."