If in the opinion of the commission, it is necessary to consolidate state lands for more economical administration as state parks and state forests, the Secretary of State, by and with the approval of the Governor, is authorized to exchange with individuals or corporations any state lands for other lands owned by individuals or corporations. The owner of such private lands shall make application for such exchange. In event such exchange is applied for, the Secretary of State is authorized to issue a patent, as provided by the existing statutes, to any landowner, upon the execution and delivery by the landowner of a deed conveying to the state land of equivalent value.