The primary goal of activity under this chapter shall be to improve or protect the quality of public inland lakes. In addition, compilation of basic scientific data on lakes of this state and assessment of experimental and innovative techniques of lake rehabilitation and protection shall be goals of the program. Districts may undertake protection and rehabilitation projects to achieve the purposes of such districts specified in s. 33.21. Projects may be undertaken in cooperation with the department, the University of Wisconsin System, and other government agencies, and public and private organizations. Projects shall be divided into study, planning and implementation phases.