(a) In the performance of its duties, the Board of Natural Resources shall:

(1) Establish by rule or regulation standards of quality for water that will be distributed in public water systems;

(2) Establish by rule or regulation such policies, requirements, or standards governing the source, collection, distribution, purification, treatment, and storage of water for public water systems as it deems necessary for the reasonable and proper use thereof in conformity with the intent of this part;

(3) Adopt, modify, repeal, and promulgate such rules and regulations, including but not limited to the Georgia primary drinking water regulations, as are necessary for the proper administration of this part, which rules and regulations shall be applicable throughout the state and shall govern the installation, use, and operation of systems; cross-connection control; quality control; laboratory certification; and methods and means for treating and furnishing water to the public by way of public water systems;

(4) Adopt, modify, repeal, and promulgate Georgia secondary drinking water regulations at such time as, in the judgment of the director or the administrator, they are necessary to protect the public welfare.

(b) The powers and duties enumerated in subsection (a) of this Code section may be exercised and performed by the Board of Natural Resources through such duly authorized agents and employees as it deems fit and proper.