It was created in 1985 by the New York State Legislature to develop and manage the infrastructure needed to support the reactivation of the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, and to serve the common interests of Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties.

Its staff manages a range of business and housing loan programs that encourage growth and contribute to the prosperity of communities.

Its staff also provides fee-based technical services to municipalities including consolidation studies, Geographic Information System hosting and the management of water and wastewater facilities.

Shortly after losing, but before vacating her assembly seat in January 2019, she notified DANC of the need for new executive leadership and offered herself as a candidate.

A number of internal combustion engines powered by methane reclaimed from the landfill produce up to 4.8-megawatts (MW) of electricity.