The board may accept on behalf of the state title in fee simple to any timbered lands or lands from which the timber has been cut or burned and in exchange may convey lands not to exceed an equal value, as determined by the board after appraisal by a qualified land appraiser, of similar state land. However, an exchange may not be made unless the exchange, in the opinion of the board, will benefit the public interest. For the purpose of an exchange, all state lands, including those referred to in 77-2-303(2), 77-2-311, and 77-5-101, are subject to be offered for exchange, and any restrictions against their sale or disposal are, for the purpose of an exchange, released.
§ 77-2-211, MCA