Farm Awards and Programs

Century Farms

The New York State Agricultural Society, the first of its kind in the country, was founded in Albany in 1832 by a small group of farmers whose stated goal was “to improve the condition of agriculture, horticulture and the household arts.” Its goal is the same today.
The Society instituted a number of programs that recognized the achievements of the state’s farmers. Among them was the Century Farm Award, which was begun in 1937.

Ontario County Farms




Dairy of Distinction

This sign signifies that the dairy farm has been given the Dairy of Distinction Award in recognition for maintaining a well-kempt farmstead. Attractive dairy farms give the consumer greater confidence in the wholesomeness of milk and stimulate milk sales which encourages public support for the dairy industry. There are 630 farms across the state that are active “Dairies of Distinction” that take pride in promoting New York’s number one industry through their attractive farmsteads.

Bicentennial Farm Program

This program recognizes New York Farms in continuous ownership by the same family for 200 years or more as well as progressive agriculture and community service by farm families. Every fifth year, deserving farm families are recognized with the Bicentennial Farm Award by the New York Agriculture Society.

Awarded in 2000 – two Ontario County Farms

Grammar Farms in Geneva established in 1790
Westfall Farms in Phelps established in 1796

This site brought to you by The Ontario County Agricultural Enhancement Board In cooperation with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ontario County, the Finger Lakes Visitors Connection, and Ontario County Department of Planning. Canandaigua, New York 14424
585-396-4455 or 585-394-3977.