(a) In recognition of the fact that archeological materials and antiquities are destroyed or damaged in connection with the construction of public works such as highways and dams, the Arkansas Archeological Survey created by this subchapter shall include salvage work in advance of or coexistent with public construction and advice directed to the avoidance of waste of archeological sites and materials.
(b) Authority is granted to the University of Arkansas to cooperate with individuals and state and federal agencies in surveying and excavating archeological sites. Full power to contract with these persons or agencies relative to these matters is extended.
(c) The State Highway Commission is authorized and directed to enter into appropriate contracts and cooperative agreements with the university and the Federal Highway Administration and to expend funds, both state and federal, in aid of archeological salvage and archeological preservation on all or any part of the lands and rights-of-way now or coming into the commission's control in order that the beneficial purposes of this subchapter shall be achieved.