The department shall, so far as practicable, throughout the state assist miners and prospectors by
(1) giving information as to mineral deposits gained from the minerals survey of the state;
(2) securing and examining samples and applying tests upon the ground, or in the office or laboratory, and advising as to the nature of a mineral and as to the best methods of analysis, sampling, assay, and test;
(3) reporting to the governor the location of roads, trails, and bridges as in its opinion are reasonably necessary for the development of mineral resources;
(4) giving advice, information, and directions as may be of assistance to the miners and prospectors of the state.