(a) The Texas Institute for Applied Environmental Research at Tarleton State University is established.
(b) The organization, control, and management of the institute is vested in the board of regents of The Texas A&M University System.

(c) The board of regents shall approve the employment of personnel by and the operating budget of the institute. An employee of the institute is an employee of Tarleton State University.
(d) The institute shall:
(1) conduct applied research on environmental issues that have public policy implications;
(2) provide a setting for environmental studies that focus on the interface between government and the private sector;
(3) provide national leadership on emerging environmental policy; and
(4) establish interdisciplinary programs or partnerships with public or private institutions of higher education, governmental agencies, or private entities to develop and implement new policies, technology, strategies, relationships, and sources of funding.
(e) The institute may cooperate or contract with a public or private entity to perform the duties of the institute.
(f) The board of regents may accept gifts and grants from a public or private source for the benefit of the institute.