East Potomac Golf Links, with a history spanning over a century, has seen numerous changes. The recent events, however, stand out due to their swift impact. On October 10, the National Park Service (NPS) removed over 400 trees from the federally-owned course in just hours. By October 11, U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes intervened, placing an order to halt the cutting until at least October 26. Judge Reyes noted potential violations of federal environmental laws and emphasized the irreversible nature of tree removal.
Despite the halt, the felled trees remain scattered across the course. In a decisive submission, government officials urged Judge Reyes to lift her order, arguing that the judicial action exceeded intended bounds. They also revealed a larger scope for the project, initially underestimated. Approximately 729 trees are slated for removal, with 300 still standing. Zones A and B saw the removal of 369 and 63 trees, respectively, bringing the total count to about 432.
Unlike past removals focused on dead, hazardous, or invasive trees, the latest cuttings involved healthy, noninvasive specimens. Freshly cut trunks and branches still lie between the fairways. NPS stated the initiative aligns with a 2019 cultural landscape report recommending tree thinning to restore the course’s original open, links-style design. They insist this task is separate from plans for a redesign linked to former President Donald Trump.
Judge Reyes expressed skepticism, suggesting the project proceeded hastily due to pressure related to Trump’s redesign ambitions, rather than a newfound dedication to old plans.
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