(a) The Department of Natural Resources shall negotiate with the proper authorities of the United States from time to time concerning the development of the rivers of Georgia with particular reference to flood control. The department shall be privileged to appear before committees of Congress concerning appropriations for river development, to gather and disseminate information, and to cooperate with the federal and state authorities toward the development of Georgia's rivers.

(b) Such information pertinent to the development of Georgia's rivers as may be obtained by the Department of Natural Resources may be filed from time to time with the Department of Industry, Trade, and Tourism and, subject to approval of the Governor and the Secretary of State, with the Department of Archives and History.