(a) The Secretary, upon application by any person, may permit geological, geophysical and seismic surveys, including the taking of cores and other samples, or the tide and submerged lands of this State. Such permits shall be nonexclusive and shall not give any preferential rights to any oil, gas and sulphur or other mineral lease. After consultation with those agencies of the State having an interest in the possible effects of the leasing, the Secretary shall include such rules and regulations in the permit as it deems necessary to protect the fish, game, wildlife and natural resources of the State. The Secretary may grant permission for the taking of cores and other samples.
(b) Each application under this section shall contain the following information:
(1) A description of areas where the applicant proposes to conduct a survey;
(2) The name and address of the applicant; and
(3) Such other relevant information as the Secretary requires.