The commissioner is hereby authorized and directed for and in behalf of the state to carry out the state's participation in a federal program of flood control, to sign all necessary agreements, and to do and perform all necessary acts in connection therewith to consummate the intent and purpose running with the approval by the federal government of flood control projects in New York state and the allotment of moneys for such projects, if, as and when made by the federal government. He is authorized and empowered, notwithstanding any other law of this state, to carry out the provisions of this act and to perform and do such other and further acts not hereby specifically provided in this act as may be necessary to carry out the projects herein authorized and so as to conform with the act and rules, regulations and requirements of the federal government made to govern the expenditures. Work may be carried out by contract or by department forces or by a combination of these two methods. However, if the commissioner deems it to be in the interest of the public, he may agree with a municipal corporation affected by such work, to have its contractor or its forces and equipment perform such work, upon such terms as the commissioner may deem advantageous to the state. The commissioner shall exercise his powers and duties with respect to the said flood control projects in a manner that will comply with any act of congress applicable thereto and any rules and regulations made and promulgated by virtue thereof.