The department, with the cooperation of the University of California, the United States Department of Agriculture, or other agencies, may develop and implement biological control methods to eradicate or control the aquatic weed pest hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) in any area of the state, and may conduct studies for those purposes. When the development or implementation involves the use of fish, each individual program for development or implementation shall first be approved by the Department of Fish and Game.