In actions for the taking or damaging of private property for public use within the meaning of Section 14 of Article I of the Constitution on claims arising out of work done by the Department of Water Resources:
(a) Service of summons shall be made on the Attorney General or the Director of Water Resources.
(b) The defense shall be conducted by the legal counsel of the department, if authorized by the Attorney General pursuant to Section 127 of the Water Code; otherwise the defense shall be conducted by the Attorney General.