1. The governor is authorized to designate such state department or other state agency as in his opinion would best serve the interests of the state in relation to the subject at hand as the official agency of the state of Missouri, to cooperate or negotiate with the chief of engineers or other authorities as designated in Public Law 534, 78th Congress (58 Statutes at Large c. 665), or any amendments thereto.

2. Such agency or department as may be designated by the governor shall have authority to investigate, cooperate and protect the state’s interests subject to the advice and approval of the governor. Such agency or department shall have power to promote the state’s interests, and shall keep the governor advised of all developments in relation to such act authorizing the construction of certain public works on rivers and harbors for flood control and for other purposes as may affect Missouri under Public Law 534, 78th Congress (58 Statutes at Large c. 665), or any amendments thereto. Such agency or department shall make reports to the governor, general assembly and other state agencies upon request, stating its findings and recommendations when requested by the governor or such other state agencies, and whenever the general assembly is in session.