Law & Justice

East Potomac Golf Links to Remove 169 Trees in First Phase of Maintenance, Total Up to 529

By TOI World Desk

Washington’s historic East Potomac Golf Links is set to remove 169 trees in the first phase of a new maintenance operation, with a second phase planned to remove an additional 90 trees. The National Park Service (NPS) says the work will not alter the course’s holes, routing, greens, bunkers or landforms and that healthy trees identified as historic features, including significant cherry trees, will be preserved. The total number of trees that could be affected by the project is 529. The first phase began on October 10. The course remains open to golfers.

The tree‑cutting comes amid a lawsuit filed by two golfers and the D.C. Preservation League against the Interior Department and the NPS. The plaintiffs argue that the proposed redevelopment of the course into a championship‑level facility should undergo required environmental review and public consultation before work proceeds. U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes has allowed the earlier removals to continue while the case proceeds, but the court has required advance notice of significant activity such as the removal of more than 10 trees or the use of large equipment.

The Trump administration is considering a redesign of the century‑old public golf course, but has not yet released a final design, detailed budget or construction schedule. The NPS maintains that the current clearing is separate from any proposed transformation. The broader future of the course remains unresolved.

East Potomac Park is also used by cyclists, runners, families, anglers and other visitors. Park advocates have organized demonstrations and gathered petition signatures calling for greater transparency about the administration’s plans. Critics worry that a championship‑oriented redevelopment could alter the character of a facility long used by the wider public.