The Nebraska State Historical Society shall have authority (1) to designate the approximate location of such markers, (2) to preserve present markers, (3) to accept gifts, and (4) to encourage local participation in and contribution to the erection of such markers through the use of gifts and matching-fund agreements. The society may appoint and delegate to a special committee the duty of research and investigation to assist in the determination of proper sites, events, personalities, and traditions to be designated.