Judge Extends Tree-Cutting Ban at East Potomac Golf Course

A federal judge has extended restrictions on the Trump administration’s work at East Potomac Golf Course in Washington, barring officials from removing or damaging trees while a lawsuit over the renovation proceeds. U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes issued the preliminary injunction in a 70-page ruling. It also requires advance written notice before other major or irreversible changes to the course. Reports describe the notice period as either 10 days or 10 business days, and the precise operative wording is not consistent across accounts. The ruling followed the removal of more than 400 trees on October 10. Reyes said the cutting occurred without meaningful notice to the plaintiffs or the court, despite earlier assurances from the government. She rejected the administration’s characterization of the work as routine maintenance, finding that the removals were part of the renovation plan. The administration has maintained that the tree cutting was part of a 2019 restoration plan. Reyes found that the D.C. Preservation League is likely to succeed in arguing that the renovation plans violate environmental-review requirements. The group sued over the proposed changes, contending that...