In addition to any powers now possessed, the department shall investigate and ascertain, as far as practicable, all facts in relation to the pollution of the waters of the Commonwealth by industrial waste. Its agents may enter upon lands, buildings, and premises as may be necessary for its investigations. It shall conduct scientific experiments and researches under its personal supervision or in colleges and universities for the purpose of ascertaining reasonable and practical means for the treatment of industrial waste, so that when the same has been treated the effluent thereof, when discharged into the waters of the Commonwealth, shall not be injurious to the public health or to animal or aquatic life, or prevent the use of the water for domestic, industrial or recreational purposes.