The hydrographic survey fund, a permanent fund, may be used only for the payment of the expenses of the surveys required under section 61-03-17. All claims for services rendered, expenses incurred, or materials or supplies furnished under the direction of the department for the surveys must be approved by the department. The amounts paid by private parties under section 61-03-17 for the surveys must be paid to the state treasurer, who shall credit the payments to the hydrographic survey fund.