East Potomac Golf Links tree removal begins amid redesign plans

The National Park Service (NPS) has begun removing trees at the East Potomac Golf Links in Washington, D.C., as part of a broader effort to rehabilitate the historic course. According to court filings, the agency plans to remove a total of 529 trees that it claims “do not contribute to the historic landscape.” The current phase involves the removal of 169 trees, with an additional 90 scheduled for a later date.

The Interior Department stated that this work is part of a seven-year-old plan to address tree overgrowth and restore the course’s historic character, which includes reopening views toward landmarks like the Washington Monument. The NPS maintains that the removal is routine maintenance and is independent of any future redesign or renovation projects.

However, the project is tied to President Donald Trump’s vision to transform the public course into a championship-caliber golf venue. This has sparked significant opposition from local residents and preservationists who fear the conversion will increase fees and reduce public access to the space. The matter is currently subject to litigation, with U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes noting that the community is “pretty upset” regarding the environmental and character changes to the park.