The Department shall make such investigations and assemble such data as it deems necessary for a proper review and study of the design and construction of dams, reservoirs and appurtenances, and for such purposes may enter upon private property. The Department may employ or make such agreements with geologists, engineers, or other expert consultants and such assistants as it deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this Part. (1967, c. 1068, s. 12; 1973, c. 1262, s. 23; 1987, c. 827, s. 179.)