(a) The board may create and operate a spatial reference center at Texas A&M University--Corpus Christi for the purpose of:
(1) facilitating the federal height modernization project for the state;
(2) conducting basic and applied research regarding elevation and geodetic and vertical datums in the state;
(3) collecting geodetic data for state mapping and control; and
(4) establishing and maintaining an official digital spatial reference system for the state, in coordination with:
(A) the United States National Geodetic Survey;
(B) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; and
(C) the Texas Water Development Board.
(b) The board shall adopt rules relating to the operation of the spatial reference center.
(c) The spatial reference center may solicit and accept gifts, grants, and appropriations for the purposes of this section.