POWERS RELATING TO CONSERVATION AND BENEFICIAL USE OF WATER.

(a) The authority has the powers of this state under Section 59, Article XVI, Texas Constitution, to:

(1) effectuate:

(A) the construction, maintenance, and operation of navigable canals or waterways;

(B) flood control;

(C) the conservation and use of ground, storm, flood, and unappropriated flow waters in the authority for all beneficial purposes;

(D) irrigation;

(E) soil conservation;

(F) sewage treatment;

(G) pollution prevention; and

(H) forestation and reforestation;

(2) encourage and develop parks and recreational facilities;

(3) preserve fish; and

(4) do all things that are required to accomplish the purposes of this section.

(b) The powers described by Subsection (a) are subject only to:

(1) the legislature's policy declarations regarding water use;

(2) the commission's continuing supervision and control;

(3) the provisions of Section 11.024, Water Code, prescribing the priorities of water uses; and

(4) the water rights acquired by municipalities and other users.

(c) The authority shall store and conserve to the greatest beneficial use the storm, flood, and unappropriated flow waters of any river or stream or tributary of a river or stream within the authority to prevent the escape of water without maximum beneficial use inside or outside the authority's boundaries.