Miss. Code Ann. § 37-29-73: Miss. Code Ann. § 37-29-73

The board of trustees is authorized to execute oil, gas and mineral leases on any of the property owned by the board of trustees of the district, but such leases shall not extend for a term beyond five years unless oil, gas or other minerals shall be in production under said leases at the expiration of said period. The terms and conditions of said lease, within the limitations above set out, shall be for the determination and within the discretion of the board of trustees.