The Canal Society of New York State  brings together canal enthusiasts from across the state, to learn about the history, development and on-going activities associated with the numerous canal systems found throughout the state.   Its activities include:
the protection of historic canal sites, and  features; support for the revitalization of canals, the development of canal ports, recreational facilities, canal trails and other related amenities, and; the presentation or interpretation of canal history and related topics.

Founded in Buffalo on October13,1956, the Canal Society is a not for profit educational organization, that provides a forum for visiting canal sites around the state and an opportunity for sharing information, and ideas relevant to preserving the history and traditions of the canal as well as promoting ideas for continued revitalization and development of it.

Membership is open to individuals interested in learning more about the history of canals and supporting the revitalization of canals.  Benefits include access to individuals with extensive knowledge of canals and the opportunity to participate in any of the field trips to canal sites throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe that are sponsored and run by the canal society.