In case the commissioner of natural resources shall determine, after investigation, that any lands now or hereafter forfeited to the state for nonpayment of taxes in Township 49 North, Range 23 West, in the County of Aitkin, within the conservation area created under sections 84A.20 to 84A.30, are suitable for any lawful private use and are not suitable or necessary for public use, the commissioner may, on application of the county board, authorize and approve the classification and sale of such lands as nonconservation lands, and such lands may thereupon be sold in the manner provided for the sale of agricultural lands under the provisions of sections 282.14 to 282.21, and acts amendatory thereof.