On July 10, the U.S. Coast Guard introduced an interim rule that established a security zone encompassing certain waters of the Potomac River. According to the
rule:
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. 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. We invite your comments on this rulemaking."
After a public outcry from boaters over a permanent security zone, the commandant of the Coast Guard said that paddlers would still be allowed to pass through the area. Previously, paddlers would have to request an escort through the security zone by radioing ahead of time.
The security zone encompasses about two miles of the Potomac and allows for a complete shutdown of the river between Sharpshin Island and Violette's Lock.
Currently, the Coast Guard is working on a set of "permanent security zone boundaries that don't incorporate the entire river," according to USCG spokesperson Alana Miller. The Coast Guard is accepting public comments through August 9 and it is estimated that the final rule will be enacted shortly after the public comment period ends. You can submit comments at
regulations.gov by typing USCG-2017-0448 in the comment box.
Stay tuned for a final ruling.