2023 marks the 41st year of the Grand National.The Grand National Waterfowl Association, Inc. (GNWA) is a non-profit Dorchester County Maryland organization founded in 1982 by a group of local men and women dedicated to promoting sound conservation practice compatible with business interest on Maryland's Eastern Shore. Starting in 1984, the fledging organization spearheaded a privately funded "band and release" free flying duck project that now exceeds the one and one half million-bird mark.
Recognized worldwide as a major player in the field of conservation, the Grand National continues to provide funding for ornithology research and redevelopment of wetland habitat on both public and private land. The Grand National Waterfowl Association underwrites a college scholarship program, the Grand National Waterfowl Educational Trust. The scholarships are awarded annually to students pursuing a career in a natural science. Since its initiation in 1987, the scholarship roster includes high school graduates seeking an advance education in forestry, marine biology, veterinary medicine, agricultural science and conservation management. |
MISSION STATEMENT
To promote and fund waterfowl preservation, environmental programs and scholarships while, simultaneously, promoting economic development in the area by hosting an annual invitational hunt for hunters from around the United States, exposing them to the natural beauty and wildlife habitat of Dorchester County, Maryland.
To promote and fund waterfowl preservation, environmental programs and scholarships while, simultaneously, promoting economic development in the area by hosting an annual invitational hunt for hunters from around the United States, exposing them to the natural beauty and wildlife habitat of Dorchester County, Maryland.
Upcoming Events

2023 Hunt week
December 14 - 16, 2023
Dorchester County, Maryland
December 14 - 16, 2023
Dorchester County, Maryland

38th Golf Tournament & Crab Feast
TBD - Summer, 2024
Golf: River Marsh Golf Club - Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay, Cambridge, Maryland
Crab Feast: Portside Seafood Restaurant - Cambridge, Maryland
TBD - Summer, 2024
Golf: River Marsh Golf Club - Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay, Cambridge, Maryland
Crab Feast: Portside Seafood Restaurant - Cambridge, Maryland

2024 Past Shooter Council Weekend
TBD - Spring 2024
Dorchester County, Maryland
TBD - Spring 2024
Dorchester County, Maryland
BECOME A GRAND NATIONAL WATERFOWL ASSOCIATION BENEFACTOR
WHAT IS A BENEFACTOR? An individual, couple or organization that pays annual dues that help promote and fund waterfowl preservation, environmental programs and scholarships, AND also includes an invitation to attend exclusive Grand National Waterfowl Benefactor events. To become a benefactor, please complete the benefactor application.