(a) Deposits of coal, phosphates, oil shale, sodium, potassium, oil, gas, geothermal resources and state land containing these deposits are subject to disposition under regulations, recommended by the director and adopted by the commissioner, and the provisions of AS 38.05.145 — 38.05.181. In applying the acreage limitations the commissioner may apply the rule of approximation. The uses of the rule of approximation made before March 31, 1960, by the commissioner are ratified.
(b) [Repealed, § 6 ch 155 SLA 1978.]