Sec. 49. (a) The board may, after notice and public hearing as provided in IC 4-22-2, declare as a pest any form of:
(1) plant;
(2) animal life; or
(3) virus;
that is injurious to plants, humans, domestic animals, articles, or substances.
(b) When a hearing is held by the board, the board may designate one (1) or more persons as the board's agent or representative to conduct the hearing.