(a) To develop marketing plans and opportunities for independent farmers in Mississippi;

(b) To encourage the commercialization of new agricultural technology businesses;

(c) To initiate the development of processing facilities for Mississippi agricultural commodities;

(d) To initiate the development of Mississippi wholesale distribution businesses for agricultural inputs and products;

(e) To promote the development of institutional and specialty markets for Mississippi agriculture products;

(f) To encourage additional research for new agricultural product development;

(g) To develop a working relationship with the state offices of the United States Department of Agriculture as may be appropriate for the promotion and development of agriculture in Mississippi;

(h) To promote the rural quality of life in Mississippi through such programs as 4-H, Future Farmers of America and agricultural education;

(i) To encourage, promote and initiate the development of alternative energy strategies, applied research technologies and commercialization enterprises that focus on Mississippi natural resources, including, but not limited to, agriculture, timber and poultry products and byproducts;

(j) To file an annual report with the Governor, Secretary of the Senate and the Clerk of the House of Representatives not later than December 1 of each year, with recommendations for any legislation necessary to accomplish the purposes of the Mississippi Land, Water and Timber Resources Act;

(k) The board may promulgate and enforce rules and regulations, in accordance with the Mississippi Administrative Procedures Law, as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of the Mississippi Land, Water and Timber Resources Act;

(l) To expend funds out of the Mississippi Land, Water and Timber Resources Fund to carry out its powers and duties under the Mississippi Land, Water and Timber Resources Act;

(m) The board may provide funds to public entities and private entities through loans, grants, contracts and any other manner the board determines appropriate for the purposes of carrying out the provisions of the Mississippi Land, Water and Timber Resources Act.