“This egregious destruction continues to show how the Trump administration operates as if laws don’t apply. They continue to move forward, disregarding the will of the American people for which these lands belong, completely ignoring federal laws and now the judicial process underway for East Potomac Park that challenges their actions."
WASHINGTON – Over the weekend, more than 500 trees were cut down within East Potomac Park – a national park site managed as part of the National Mall and Memorial Parks. The tree removal is a first step in the Trump Administration’s plan to transform the public course into a championship, Trump branded golf course modeling his private clubs.
The East Potomac Golf Course is a public course open for all and was originally established by Congress in 1897 for “the recreation and pleasure of the people.” Managed by the National Park Service, the National Links Trust operated the course until their lease agreement was terminated abruptly. Also at-risk is the elimination of adjacent Hains Point, a popular recreational area known for its scenic views of the Potomac River and picnic area.
Statement by Ed Stierli, Vice President of Government Relations
“This egregious destruction continues to show how the Trump administration operates as if laws don’t apply. They continue to move forward, disregarding the will of the American people for which these lands belong, completely ignoring federal laws and now the judicial process underway for East Potomac Park that challenges their actions.
“At the same time, the administration continues to proceed with their plans for the Triumphal Arch at a pace that is designed to check boxes and ensure the least amount of public participation and oversight. Projects like this arch would fundamentally alter the character of the National Mall, while bypassing the legal processes that ensures transparency and protection for our shared heritage.
“Clear laws were put in place to require congressional authorization and that the public has a meaningful voice before anything permanently changes these landscapes. The lack of transparency and these most recent actions demonstrate an unmistakable pattern that puts private interest over public lands, cuts the American public out of the process, while using taxpayer funds to systematically bulldoze through America’s front yard.
“We will continue to fight to ensure our parks here remain protected as intended, for all of us.”
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About the National Parks Conservation Association: Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has been the leading voice in safeguarding our national parks. NPCA and its more than 1.9 million members and supporters work together to protect and preserve our nation’s most iconic and inspirational places for future generations. For more information, visit www.npca.org.
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