77-3-201. Nonmetallic mineral leases authorized. When there are found upon state lands deposits of stone, limestone, oil shale, clay, bentonite, calcite, talc, mica, ceramic, asbestos, marble, diatomite, gravel or sand, or phosphate, sodium, potash, sulfur, fluorite or barite, or any other nonmetallic minerals, but not including coal, oil, or gas, valuable for building, mining, or other commercial purposes, the board may in its discretion issue permits or leases to private persons for the removal and disposition of the above-named deposits upon such terms and conditions as the board may determine.