The department shall exercise its powers in such manner as to promote the continued conduct of research and development activities in the fields specified below by private or public institutions or persons and to assist in the acquisition of an expanding fund of theoretical and practical knowledge in such fields. To this end the department may conduct, and make arrangements, including contracts and agreements, for the conduct of, research and development activities relating to:

(1) The theory and development of methods of weather modification and control, including processes, materials, and devices related thereto;

(2) Utilization of weather modification and control for agricultural, industrial, commercial, and other purposes;

(3) The protection of life and property during research and operational activities.