In addition to the other duties and powers conferred upon the department under this part, the department has the following duties and powers:

    (a) To offer such assistance as may be appropriate to the directors of conservation districts in implementing any of their responsibilities under this part and as otherwise provided by law.

    (b) To keep the directors of each of the districts informed of the activities and experience of all other districts and to facilitate cooperation and sharing of advice and experience between the districts.

    (c) To approve and coordinate the programs of all conservation districts.

    (d) To secure the cooperation and assistance of the United States and any of its agencies, and the state and any of its agencies, in the work of the districts, and to formulate policies and procedures as the department considers necessary for the extension of aid in any form from federal or state agencies to the districts.

    (e) To disseminate information throughout the state concerning the activities and programs of the conservation districts and to encourage the formation of districts in areas where their organization is desirable.

    (f) To review district budgets and financial information, including audit reports.