The department of natural resources may utilize the services of volunteers to implement clean-up and beautification programs or any other programs that accomplish any of the purposes of the department. The director of natural resources shall approve all volunteer programs and may recruit, train, and supervise the services of community volunteers or volunteer groups for volunteer programs. In accordance with state guidelines, the director may reimburse volunteers for necessary and appropriate expenses, such as travel expenses, that they incur in the course of their volunteer service to the department. The director may designate volunteers in a volunteer program as state employees for the purpose of motor vehicle accident liability insurance under section 9.83 of the Revised Code, for the purpose of immunity under section 9.86 of the Revised Code, and for the purpose of indemnification from liability incurred in the performance of their duties under section 9.87 of the Revised Code.