(a) The board shall have the following powers and duties with regard to the Heritage Trust Program:

(1) To adopt and promulgate all policies, rules, and regulations necessary for the identification and acquisition of heritage areas and for the selection, dedication, management, and use of heritage preserves;

(2) To acquire heritage areas in the name of the State of Georgia as otherwise provided by law;

(3) To advocate and approve the dedication of heritage preserves; and

(4) To provide general supervision and direction in the protection, management, operation, and use of heritage preserves.

(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Code section, the board shall not have any power of purchase, condemnation, lease, agreement, gift, or devise which would have the effect of preventing, blocking, or in any manner hindering the construction of the Spewrell Bluff Dam Project authorized by P. L. 88-253, approved December 30, 1963.