Every corporation and all individuals desiring to avail themselves of the provisions of this act, shall file with the board of control of the St. Mary’s Falls ship canal company a map or plan of the section or sections of the stream or streams which have been so improved, accompanied by the affidavit of the secretary of any such corporation, or any 2 individuals intending to thus incorporate, setting forth fully the nature and value of said improvements, and also generally what further improvements, if any, are contemplated, and the estimated cost of the same, whereupon such corporation or individuals shall have the right to control said stream and collect tolls for running, rafting and driving logs, as hereinafter provided: Provided, however, That where individuals have improved any stream, upon failure to incorporate and file due proof of the same with the said board of control of the St. Mary’s Falls ship canal company, within said period of 4 months, all their rights under this act shall be forfeited by mere operation of law without notice.