On Tuesday, a federal judge blocked further tree removal at East Potomac Golf Links in Washington, D.C. The Trump administration’s actions had led to the felling of hundreds of trees at the historic public course over the weekend.
U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes issued a brief order preventing the Department of the Interior and National Park Service from cutting any more trees at East Potomac until October 26. The judge also mandated that the administration must provide the court and plaintiffs, including the D.C. Preservation League and two local golfers, with three business days’ notice before making any significant modifications to the course.
Reyes expressed concerns that the plaintiffs could suffer harm without intervention. The lawsuit challenges President Trump’s proposed renovation of East Potomac.
The judge’s order followed a lengthy hearing where Reyes criticized the Justice Department. The hearing was prompted by the National Park Service’s plan to remove approximately 529 trees as part of a project aimed at tree management and cultural landscape rehabilitation.
On October 10, the consequences of the project were evident, as felled trees were visible at East Potomac Golf Course.– Aaron Schwartz, Getty Images
The D.C. Preservation League reported to the court that all 529 trees were cut in one day, including healthy, mature trees. Although the crew intended to remove more trees, rain delayed further activity.
Justice Department attorney Marissa Piropato informed Judge Reyes that 430 trees were already removed, with an additional 99 identified for removal.
For months, Reyes had instructed the government to notify plaintiffs and the court of any plans for construction or similar activities at East Potomac, ensuring she could review such actions. The Justice Department only filed a notice regarding planned removals just before 5 p.m. on a Friday.
Reyes sharply rebuked Piropato for the inadequate notification efforts, stating, You did not do your best. You did your absolute worst.
The judge remarked that the government had lost credibility
in its handling of the situation.
The judge demanded testimony from Kevin Griess, superintendent of the National Mall and Memorial Parks, and Frank Lands, deputy director of operations for the National Park Service. They must explain the circumstances that led to the removal of 430 trees and identify who authorized the actions on Saturday. Reyes scheduled another hearing for October 19, requiring the appearance of Jessica Bowron, acting director of the National Park Service, and Gregory Wischer, deputy chief of staff at the Interior Department.
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