ERCSWMA was formed around 1990 when all of the local land fills were mandated by NYSDEC to close. The Authority provides a way by which member towns and villages can dispose of their solid waste and recyclables and hazardous waste at a reasonable cost. ERCSWMA hires a Director to oversee daily opeartaions. Each member town or village appoints a representative to the Board that oversees the Authority. ERCSWMA also runs the Community Warehouse in Hoosick Falls where used items are recycled and made available for resale to the general public.
Seven municipalities, the towns of Pittstown, Schaghticoke, Stephentown and the villages of Castleton, Hoosick Falls, Nassau and Valley Falls are members of ERCSWMA. Each village or town appoints a representative to be a member of the Board. An Executive Director oversees the day to day operations of ERCSWMA and the Community Warehouse. The Board is required to meet at least six times a year. Their responsibilites include but are not limited to the financial operation of the Authority.