(Formerly Sec. 25-5a). Inventory of groundwater and surface water resources. Study of water policy needs

(a) The Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection is authorized to carry out a ten-year program of detailed geological and hydrological studies and groundwater investigations and reports throughout the state by means of test drillings, observation wells and any other means necessary to determine groundwater resources, quality and potential supplies, and establish a complete inventory of groundwater resources of the entire state. The commissioner shall endeavor to gather and utilize any data or information obtained by any other state or federal agency or any municipal or private utility with a view toward coordination of all work of such similar nature. (b) The commissioner is authorized to carry out a program of studies and investigations necessary to establish a complete inventory of surface water resources of the entire state and shall collect, utilize and coordinate the data and activities of any other state or federal agency or municipal or private utility or corporation. (c) The commissioner may negotiate with any property owner such terms, agreements or contracts as may be necessary or convenient in connection with carrying out the duties required by this section.