Washington DC cherry trees face removal for golf course on Sept 3 2026

The plan to expand the East Potomac Golf Links will remove 50 acres of public parkland. This is a significant change compared to the current 36-hole layout.
By Newsroom | Environment, Washington D.C. |

WASHINGTON D.C. — Plans to overhaul the East Potomac Golf Links under the direction of Donald Trump reportedly include the removal of Washington's oldest grove of cherry trees and a popular riverside bike trail. The proposed expansion, which would extend the golf course onto roughly 50 acres of currently public parkland, has drawn criticism and legal challenges, with opponents citing potential violations of park establishment laws dating back to 1897.

Trump Allegedly Plans to Cut Down DC's Oldest Cherry Tree to Make Way for Massive New Washington Golf Course - 1

The core of the dispute centers on a golf course renovation that, according to photographic evidence and media reports, shows an expanded layout that appears to displace established public recreational areas, including a historic cherry tree grove and a well-used bicycle path.

Trump Allegedly Plans to Cut Down DC's Oldest Cherry Tree to Make Way for Massive New Washington Golf Course - 2

Work on the golf course renovation is slated to begin September 3rd. Trump has characterized the existing facility as "dilapidated, worn out, and very dangerous and outdated," envisioning a new "Greatest Golf Course anywhere in the World" that will remain accessible to the public. This initiative is being managed through the Department of the Interior, with golf course architect Tom Fazio leading the design.

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Trump Allegedly Plans to Cut Down DC's Oldest Cherry Tree to Make Way for Massive New Washington Golf Course - 3

A federal judge has intervened, issuing a directive that government officials must provide notice before cutting down more than 10 trees amidst the ongoing legal dispute. This warning followed an emergency petition from plaintiffs seeking to halt any immediate work. Park Service officials confirmed a safety assessment was underway and reported no signs of imminent demolition at the time of the hearing, though closure signs were observed at the site.

Trump Allegedly Plans to Cut Down DC's Oldest Cherry Tree to Make Way for Massive New Washington Golf Course - 4

The expanded golf course, transitioning from three courses and 36 holes to a single 18-hole championship layout, would encroach upon parkland utilized for activities such as picnicking, fishing, and cycling. This expansion is viewed by some as a move that could potentially violate the park's original purpose as established for public recreation and access.

Separately, discussions around the vulnerability of cherry trees, particularly those in coastal or flood-prone areas like the Tidal Basin, highlight concerns about saltwater intrusion affecting their health, as they are adapted to freshwater environments.

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