It is the policy of the legislature to provide for the conservation of the natural resources of the state, including soil, water, farmland, forestland, and other natural resources, and to provide for the control and prevention of soil erosion, and thereby to conserve the natural resources of this state, control floods, prevent impairment of dams and reservoirs, assist in maintaining the navigability of rivers and harbors, preserve wildlife, protect the tax base, protect public lands, and protect and promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the people of this state.