In the event the district shall fail, upon application to the individuals, corporations, railroads, county, or municipality, to secure the needed right-of-way or lands by consent, contract, or agreement or if the owners of them are unknown, uncertain, nonresidents, or under disability, then the district shall have the right to procure the condemnation of the property, lands, rights, privileges, and easements in the manner prescribed in § 14-91-309.