85-3-103. Department powers. In addition to any other acts authorized by law, the department may:

(1) acquire materials, equipment, and facilities as are necessary to perform its duties under this chapter;

(2) receive any funds which may be offered or become available from federal grants or appropriations, private gifts, donations, bequests, or any other source and unless their use is restricted, expend the funds for the administration of this chapter;

(3) make such studies and investigations and obtain such information as the department may deem necessary in exercising its authority in the administration or enforcement of this chapter;

(4) cooperate with public or private agencies in the performance of the department's functions or duties and in furtherance of the purposes of this chapter;

(5) represent the state in any and all matters pertaining to plans, procedures, or negotiations for interstate compacts relating to weather modification and control;

(6) enter into cooperative agreements with the United States government or any of its agencies, with the various counties and cities of this state, or with any private or public agencies for conducting weather modification or cloud seeding operations;

(7) act for and represent the state and the counties, cities, and private or public agencies in contracting with private concerns for the performance of weather modifications or cloud seeding operations; and

(8) conduct and make arrangements, including contracts and agreements, for the conduct of research and development activities relating to:

(a) the identification and evaluation of meteorological, environmental, ecological, agricultural, economic, hydrological, and sociological impacts of weather modification in Montana;

(b) the theory and development of methods of weather modification and control, including processes, materials, and devices relating thereto;

(c) the utilization of weather modification and control for agricultural, industrial, commercial, recreational, and other purposes;

(d) the protection of life and property during research and operational activities.