Judge Blocks Further Tree Removal at D.C. Golf Course
Source reports published 27 Oct 2026, 12:34 pm – 1:06 pm AEST
A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction preventing further changes to the East Potomac Golf Links in Washington, D.C., following a dispute over the Trump administration’s tree removal plans. The judge determined the government likely violated environmental law.
What happened
- U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes barred the Trump administration from removing or damaging any trees at East Potomac Golf Links in Washington, D.C., while a lawsuit challenging the course renovation plan proceeds.
- The judge cited concerns about the government’s actions, stating she was "furious" and "thoroughly unamused" after more than 430 trees were felled with little notice.
- The D.C. Preservation League sued, arguing the government violated the National Environmental Policy Act by failing to analyze the project’s impacts.
- Judge Reyes found that the government’s tree removals were part of Mr. Trump’s renovation plan and likely violated federal environmental law.