Cal. Pub. Res. Code § 4671

The department may, in accordance with the policy of the board, engage in and demonstrate methods of developing, using, and protecting the forest and wild land resources of the state. To accomplish such purpose, it may, with the approval of the Department of Finance, enter into agreements with any agency of government, including the federal government, and with any person, firm, or corporation and may make expenditures for such purpose.