Go to the management agency for the land, be it USFS, BLM, State, etc. You might also check with the State mineral/environmental office. See what the requirements are for what you're wanting to do.

As to Federal agencies, the trigger point is usually any equipment beyond hand tools. No idea on what the State requirements are. If planning on some kind of wash plant you're probably going to have some kind of settling pond for the fine tailings.

For the feds, an excavator will usually require a Notice Of Intent (NOI) at the minimum, and a Plan Of Operation, (POO) and a reclaimation bond, the amount depending on what disturbance is allowed at one time. Usually required to reclaim a worked area before opening another.

If you are going to have to file a NOI/POO, plan on quite a bit of time to get it approved. I know of some still in process for 5 years and still not issued. The responsible agency can give you a possible time frame, as well as asking the State for their time frame if they're involved.

Might consider speaking to a mining attorney.
Cost up front, piece of mind out the back.
Just a suggestion

Bill

You also have to deal with the state of New Mexico division of mines and minerals. Just a heads up before you get equipment and start digging.

Hey Alan. Give Charles Watson, licensed California geologist, a call at Advanced Geologic...#530-258-4228. He’s an expert on the subject and knows exactly how to deal with the state, BLM, and NFS...the good, the bad, and the ugly. We’ve purchased several claims from him and he knows his stuff, and would most likely be cheaper than an attorney. Could probably give sound advice from photos (drone?) of your location (for a fee) of your area. Good luck, let us know how it turns out. 🤝