The commission may, when it deems such action to be in the best interests of the state, for good and valuable consideration, release easements granted to the state for the construction, operation, and maintenance of dams, along with access thereto, if such dams have not been constructed within ten years of the granting of the easement or if such dams are no longer useful. The commission may also assign such easements to a political subdivision if it determines the assignment would be in the best interests of the state. Any release or assignment shall be in the name of the state of North Dakota by the governor and attested by the secretary of state.