Cal. Water Code § 229

The department, either independently or in cooperation with any person or any county, state, federal, or other agency, to the extent that funds are allocated therefor, shall investigate conditions of the quality of all waters within the state, including saline waters, coastal and inland, as related to all sources of pollution of whatever nature. The department may recommend any steps which might be taken to improve or protect the quality of such waters. The department shall coordinate its investigations fully with the board.