Judge Scolds Trump Administration Over Secret Tree Clearing at D.C. Golf Course

A federal judge has sharply criticized the Trump administration's actions in removing approximately 400 trees from the East Potomac Golf Course in Washington, D.C., describing the move as an attempt to circumvent a legal battle over proposed renovations. U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes expressed strong displeasure during an emergency status hearing, warning the government against further action without court approval.

Secret Tree Removals

The National Park Service began clearing trees at the public golf course late Friday and continued into Saturday, with plans to remove hundreds more. Preservation groups, which have sued to block the Trump administration's plan to overhaul the course into a championship-caliber venue, alerted the court to the tree cutting. Plaintiffs stated that the removals exceeded the initial count and included healthy, mature trees.

Judge's Frustration

Judge Reyes voiced incredulity over the government's decision to proceed with the tree clearing without notifying the court. She reminded the Trump administration's legal team of previous assurances that no significant construction or destructive activities would occur without prior notification. "Ignorance is not an excuse here," Reyes stated, adding that the tree removal had "cost the government all of its credibility" in the case.

She suggested the government may have intentionally delayed informing the court and plaintiffs about their actions. Reyes explicitly instructed the Justice Department to update the court on any planned "imminent, significant construction or destructive activities of an irretrievable character" at the golf course. The judge warned that any violation of her order, even by a brief margin, would result in "contempt proceedings."

Preservationists' Concerns

Kevin Griess, the superintendent for the National Mall and Memorial Parks, had previously informed the court that 529 trees were slated for removal, starting with an overgrown area known as "Trash Island." He maintained that the removals would not include healthy trees or those contributing to the historical character of the golf course and would proceed regardless of the renovation plan's outcome. However, preservationists countered that the operation proceeded rapidly and involved trees beyond the initial list, including oaks and maples.

Skye Perryman, president of Democracy Forward, characterized the actions as a tactic to "irrevocably alter a cherished national landmark" to advance one of President Trump's projects. The organization urged the court to intervene quickly to prevent further damage to the park system.