Played an instrumental role in establishing the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences  in the 1860s.

 Conducted Farmer Institutes – educational programs – until the Cooperative Extension Service was founded.

 Established the New York State Fair, managing it for 57 years.  

 Promoted the creation of the Department of Agriculture and Markets.

 Developed and sponsored the Empire State Food and Agricultural Leadership Institute (LEAD New York).

Sponsors an annual agricultural forum at the Society’s annual meeting in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture and Markets to explore issues important to the industry.

Publishes The Cultivator, which began in 1834. 

Recognizes Century Farms, a recognition begun in 1937. 

Awards the Distinguished Service Citation to recognize people who make outstanding contributions to the state’s agricultural industry.  

Presents the Harold L. “Cap” Creal Journalism Awards to recognize journalists who promote an understanding of New York agriculture. 

Holds participating memberships in the Cornell University Board of Trustees and the Council of Agricultural Organizations.  

Supports the Empire State Food and Agricultural Leadership Institute (LEAD New York).

Presents the New York State Agricultural Society Business of the Year Award to recognize food and agricultural businesses that demonstrate quality, leadership, innovation and a positive image of agriculture and food. 

Timeline: "Highlights of Society History" and locations of Society Archives