The director of the department of environmental management is authorized to recruit, train and organize a volunteer auxiliary marine patrol of such size and qualification as he or she shall determine; provided, however, that the total membership in the auxiliary marine patrol shall not exceed fifty (50) persons. In selecting those persons who shall become members of the auxiliary marine patrol, the director of the department of environmental management shall consult with and seek the advice and assistance of local harbor masters and appropriate city and town officials, provided; however, that the auxiliary marine patrol shall at all times be under the direction of the director of the department of environmental management and subject to the rules and regulations as prescribed by the director. Members of the auxiliary marine patrol shall carry out such duties and functions as may be assigned to them from time to time by the director of the department of environmental management.