(a) There is established within the department an aquaculture program that shall:
(1) Monitor actions taken by industry and by federal, state, county, and private agencies in activities relating to aquaculture, and promote and support worthwhile aquaculture activities;
(2) Serve as an information clearinghouse for aquaculture activities;
(3) Coordinate development projects to investigate and solve biological and technical problems involved in raising selected species with commercial potential;
(4) Actively seek federal funding for aquaculture activities;
(5) Undertake activities required to develop and expand the aquaculture industry; and
(6) Perform other functions and activities that may be assigned by law.
(b) The chairperson may employ temporary staff exempt from chapter 76 for the aquaculture program.