About Our Forum

The Annual Forum of the NYS Agricultural Society is one of the oldest and largest meetings of its kind in NY and possibly the US. All sectors of the ag industry - producers, advocates, decision-makers, and aspiring leaders - gather to discuss and dissect emerging issues and to network with peers. The Commissioner of the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets describes the Forum as the largest family reunion in the state! Past themes have included regenerative business, building resiliency, trade and tech changes, diversification strategies and introducing the next generation of agriculturists. Conducted each January in Syracuse, NY - the heart of Central NY - the Forum is a day-long program capped off by the Commissioner’s State of Agriculture Address. Eight awards are announced annually including: Ag Promotion, Business of the Year, “Cap Creal” Communications recognition, Century and Bicentennial Farms, Distinguished Service, Farm Safety, Next Generation Farmer and NY FFA Chapter of the Year.