The Water Resources Department may accept the reports of consulting engineers, geologists or other specialists employed by the dam owner. If the department concludes that the reports are insufficient, the department may employ consulting engineers, geologists or other specialists as agents or representatives of the department to make special examinations and inspections and to prepare reports for the department. The cost of such special examinations, inspections and reports shall be paid by the department or, upon mutual agreement, may be divided between the department and the dam owner. [2019 c.390 § 9]