77-2-214. Investigation and findings concerning exchange of land. (1) The department shall, as soon as it concludes its investigation thereof, report to the board the facts disclosed by its investigation and include in its report a recommendation concerning the proposal, including its reasons therefor in writing.

(2) After considering the report and recommendation and making such further investigation as it considers advisable, the board shall consider the entire matter, make findings and conclusions concerning the proposal, and make an order:

(a) rejecting and dismissing the proposal if in the judgment of the board the exchange is not in the public interest; or

(b) accepting the proposal and ordering the exchange to be made if in the judgment of the board the exchange is in the public interest and should be made.

(3) An order accepting the proposal shall contain an accurate description of all lands to be exchanged.