(1) The department is a criminal justice agency for the purpose of obtaining the technical assistance and support services provided by the board of crime control under the provisions of 44-7-101. Authorized officers of the department are granted peace officer status with the power:
(a) of search, seizure, and arrest;
(b) to investigate activities in this state regulated by this part and rules of the department and the fish and wildlife commission; and
(c) to report violations to the county attorney of the county in which they occur.
(2) All sheriffs and peace officers of the state of Montana and all United States coast guard law enforcement officers shall have authority to enforce provisions of this part, as amended.