The commissioner of public lands, or other officer or board having the control and management of state land, and the proper board or officer of any political, municipal, or other subdivision or agency of the state having control and management of public lands, may, on behalf of the state or of such political, municipal, or other subdivision or agency thereof, with respect to land and oil and gas rights subject to the control and management of such respective body, board or officer, consent to and participate in any unit plan.