From Golf · · 1m 30s
Judge furious over Trump's D.C. muni tree removal
Judge condemns Trump administration for removing 430 trees from historic East Potomac Golf Links without proper notice.
In brief
Judge condemns Trump administration for removing 430 trees from historic East Potomac Golf Links without proper notice. A judge halted tree removal at East Potomac Golf Links after the Trump administration violated court orders by cutting 430 trees without advance notice. Originally reported by Golf.
Quick answers
- Who ordered trees cut?
- Kevin Griess, National Mall and Memorial Parks superintendent, said tree removal was ordered by Frank Lands, National Park Service deputy director.
- What is the key takeaway from Judge furious over Trump's D.C. muni tree removal?
- A judge halted tree removal at East Potomac Golf Links after the Trump administration violated court orders by cutting 430 trees without advance notice.
Judge condemns tree removal
A judge furious about Trump administration cutting 430 trees from East Potomac Golf Links without court notice.
“You did your absolute worst”
Court order ignored
The government submitted tree removal plans hours before court hearing began, violating a previous order requiring advance notice.
Tree removal goal
The government claims tree removal improves safety and restores Walter Travis’s 1920s design intent, which was mostly treeless.
Design controversy
Tom Fazio’s renovation plans differ significantly from Walter Travis’s original 1920s design, with preservationists calling it a rip and run.
“This was a rip and run”
Lease termination
The Trump administration terminated the National Links Trust’s 50-year lease in December citing unpaid payments and lack of capital improvements.
Renovation plans
The administration reversed course in May to partner with National Links Trust for immediate renovations while returning stewardship of other courses.
Preservationist reaction
The DC Preservation League argues tree removal conflicts with the government’s stated goal of preserving historic character consistent with original design.
Next steps
The court ordered a 24-hour halt to tree removal with potential extension to 14 days if necessary.
Who ordered trees cut?
Kevin Griess, National Mall and Memorial Parks superintendent, said tree removal was ordered by Frank Lands, National Park Service deputy director.
What matters most
A judge halted tree removal at East Potomac Golf Links after the Trump administration violated court orders by cutting 430 trees without advance notice.
