To avoid duplication of effort the state association may, in the discretion of its officers, affiliate and cooperate with other organizations and agencies engaged in the furthering of reclamation of lands in the state and make financial contributions to them for such purpose. In carrying out the powers authorized by this chapter, the association of irrigation districts is authorized to enter into contracts with the federal government, the state, irrigation districts, boards of control, municipal or quasi-municipal corporations, cooperatives, other public or private agencies, and associate organizations. The association of irrigation districts is authorized to advance funds to promote the development and utilization of agricultural water and power resources and to employ the technical and professional assistance necessary to survey, plan, investigate, study, print, and publish information and literature to promote the development and utilization of such resources and provide and present data and information to members of congress, any committee of congress, and to other federal officials as an aid in securing needed legislation, contracts, and timely appropriations.