Settlers within the meander line of any meandered lake have the first preferential right, and the Department of State Lands shall, so far as practicable, work out the various preferential rights by securing to each, all the lands which would be most advantageously used by such several persons. In case of conflict, the department shall give the parties a reasonable time in which to agree, and if they cannot agree, the department shall decide the matter and make conveyances as it considers equitable, and its decision in the matter shall be final. The department shall fix the time within which such preferential rights shall be exercised.
ORS 274.490