The department of economic and community development, in cooperation with the department of environment and conservation, is directed to study and develop a plan for the promotion and development of adventure tourism and other recreational and economic development activities in rural areas of this state. Such study and plan shall be developed within existing departmental resources. The departments are directed to consider natural areas, best available science, existing recreational opportunities, economic conditions, including, but not limited to, persistent high unemployment, safety and environmental issues, and community interest in developing such plan. Such plan should include recommendations on whether and to what extent existing laws should be amended and any new laws should be enacted in order to encourage development of adventure tourism in this state. The department of environment and conservation and the department of tourist development are authorized to promulgate rules to effectuate the purposes of this part.