The department shall:

1. Promulgate, and amend from time to time, such rules and regulations as the department shall deem necessary, proper or desirable to carry out the provisions and purposes of this title and to assure the appropriate coordination of water supply planning pursuant to this title with the planning, protection, conservation, development and utilization of the water resources of this state pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, the Public Health Law or any other law. Such rules and regulations shall be promulgated prior to July 1, l964;

2. Receive applications of local agencies for state aid, pursuant to this title, in such form and containing such information as it may require;

3. Approve the area and scope of such comprehensive studies, prior to their execution, in accordance with the rules and regulations adopted by the department; and upon recommendations of the state Commissioner of Health;

4. Approve applications for state aid pursuant to this title;

5. Receive copies of final reports of local agencies; and make advisory recommendations to the state Commissioner of Health with respect thereto;

6. Performs such other and further acts as may be necessary, proper or desirable to carry out effectively the provisions of this section.