Locals rally against Trump's potential redevelopment of East Potomac Park at a protest in early October. Runners, cyclists, birders and more worry they will lose access to the park under Trump's plan to overhaul the municipal golf course. Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images

WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Trump's express wish to take over the East Potomac Golf Links has thrust a municipal D.C. golf course into the national spotlight. But locals rely on that area for much more than golfing — and worry the district could lose an invaluable recreational oasis.

The southern tip of East Potomac Park, known as Hains Point, is beloved by cyclists, runners, picnickers and birders for its waterfront views, cherry trees and Ohio Drive, the scenic three-mile loop around its perimeter.…