The Commissioner shall have the following powers and duties:
1. To provide information and assistance in obtaining permits relating to aquacultural activities;
2. To promote aquaculture including encouraging investment in aquaculture facilities to expand production, processing capacity, and marketing;
3. To work with appropriate state and federal agencies to review, develop, and implement policies and procedures to facilitate aquacultural development;
4. To consult with and assist aquaculture industry groups, aquaculture associations, and academic institutions to develop, maintain, and expand the aquaculture industry; and
5. To develop, support, and implement policies beneficial to Virginia aquaculture.