To accomplish a purpose for which the authority is created, the authority has the powers conferred by the general laws of this state on water control and improvement districts, including the power to:
(1) construct, acquire, improve, maintain, or repair a dam or other structure; and
(2) acquire land, easements, equipment, or other property needed to use, control, or distribute storm or flood waters that may be impounded, diverted, or controlled by the authority.