The American Dahlia Society (ADS) was founded in 1915 "to stimulate interest in the dahlia, to promote its culture and development, to establish a standard nomenclature, to test new varieties, and to give awards as deserved." ADS encourages education relating to dahlias and the study of dahlia diseases and pests. The society also helps to establish uniform judging standards for flowers shows and exhibitions and organizes an annual meeting and dahlia show. ADS is comprised of local societies throughout the United States and Canada. Membership in ADS can be obtained on an at-large basis, or through a local society affiliate. ADS is governed by officers elected by members, including president, first, second, and third vice-presidents and secretary. The society produces a quarterly publication, Bulletin of the American Dahlia Society and the ADS Classification and Handbook of Dahlias to further guide members in the study and growing of dahlias.

Eugene H. Boeke, Jr. (1925-2012) was a Georgia dahlia enthusiast, active in both the Georgia Dahlia Society and ADS. He served as regional vice-president of the Southern Conference for ADS for several years and also hybridized numerous dahlias.