Trump May Shut Down A Boating Hotspot Near Reston When He Visits

STERLING, VA — If you're hoping to make the short trip north from Reston to the Potomac River this summer for some kayaking and fishing with the family, you'd better check President Trump's schedule before you leave. The Coast Guard is looking to shut down a stretch of the Potomac River when the president heads to his golf course in nearby Sterling to unwind, which he does quite often.

The restriction would cover a nearly two-mile stretch of the river where it borders Trump National Golf Club, located at Lowes Island. When Trump is there, that section will be totally shut down to kayakers, boaters, jet-skis, and anyone else who doesn't have authorization.

"This action is necessary to prevent waterside threats and incidents immediately before, during and after events held at the Trump National Golf Club at Potomac Falls, VA," states the rule document issued by the Coast Guard. "This rule prohibits vessels and people from entering the security zone and requires vessels and persons in the security zone to depart the security zone, unless specifically exempt under the provisions in this rule or granted specific permission from the Coast Guard Captain of the Port Maryland-National Capital Region or designated representative.

"The regulation will enhance the safety and security of persons and property, while minimizing, to the extent possible, the impact on commerce and legitimate waterway use," it adds.

Locals aren't taking the proposal lying down. Nearly 100 comments had already been submitted as of about noon on Wednesday, with most of them being negative.

"Please stop the madness. This area has been used by paddlers and boaters for many years," writes John Lockwood. "There's even a public boat ramp on Seneca Creek. Several small businesses that operate in the area offering paddling rentals and lessons will be impacted along with private boaters who enjoy access to the river at both Violettes Lock and Seneca Creek."

Amy Young said such a security zone would be a "blow to the soul of the recreational boating community" in the D.C. area.

"It is outrageous to me that access to a manicured golf course built with little respect for the natural and wild beauty surrounding it, may now trump (pun intended) the access to the river of those who wish to freely recreate on and along the banks of the river," she wrote.

You have until Aug. 9 to comment on the proposed security zone at Regulations.gov.

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