1. In order to adequately protect the interests of the state in its water resources, the department is hereby authorized to:

a. Cooperate with the appropriate agencies of the federal government or this or other states, or any interstate bureau, group, division or agency with respect to the use of water from lakes, ponds, rivers and streams, which are without or wholly or partially contained within this state, and to endeavor to harmonize any conflicting claims which might arise therefrom.

b. Appear, represent and act for the state in respect to any proceeding before either a federal or state governmental body or agency where the water resources of the state may be affected, and may do and perform such acts in connection therewith as it deems proper to protect the interests of the state.

c. Present for the consideration of the Congress or officers of the federal government, as occasion requires, the just rights of the state in relation to its waters and institute and prosecute appropriate actions and proceedings to secure such rights, and defend any action or proceeding calculated to impair such rights.

2. The department is designated as the agent of the state to obtain the cooperation, aid and assistance of any appropriate federal agencies in the performance of the functions of the department or of any regional planning and development board created under title 11 of this article. The department may enter into contracts, when required, with any such federal agencies for such purposes. Wherever it is required by a federal statute, rule or regulations that such cooperation, aid and assistance be given on a matching-funds basis, the department, if funds have been appropriated and are available therefor, is designated as the agent of the state to enter into contracts on said basis; provided, however, that payment by the state shall not exceed one-half of the cost, including personal service, of the services rendered by the federal agencies. All contracts entered into by the department shall be executed by its commissioner and in the manner and form prescribed by law.