Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter.
(1) "Volunteer group" means any person or group of persons interested in or party to an agreement with the department relating to a cooperative fish or wildlife project.
(2) "Cooperative project" means a project conducted by a volunteer group that will benefit the fish, shellfish, game bird, nongame wildlife, or game animal resources of the state and for which the benefits of the project, including fish and wildlife reared and released, are available to all citizens of the state. Indian tribes may elect to participate in cooperative fish and wildlife projects with the department.