(a) The work of the geological survey shall commence as soon after the appointment of the State Geologist and his or her assistants as is practical.
(b) The Office of the State Geologist shall have access at all times to the field notes and maps of the Commissioner of State Lands' office, and to the records and reports of the State Mine Inspector, the Oil and Gas Commission, the county clerk of any county, or to the public record of any state department or county official without the payment of any fee.