The department of natural resources is hereby designated as the air pollution agency of the state for all purposes of any federal air pollution control act and may:
(1) Take all necessary or appropriate action to obtain for the state the benefits of any federal act;
(2) Apply for and receive federal funds made available under any federal act;
(3) Approve projects for which loans or grants under any federal act are made to any municipality or agency of the state;
(4) Participate through its authorized representatives in proceedings under any federal act and recommend measures for the reduction of air pollution originating within the state.