Solid Minerals

Activities on a mining claim are limited to prospecting, mining, or processing operations and uses reasonably incident thereto. Surface disturbance that exceeds “casual use” requires authorization of the local BLM Field Office or Forest Service Ranger District Office that administers the land and the State Mining and Minerals Division. Generally, casual use activities, not requiring authorization, do not involve mechanized earth moving equipment and cause no or negligible disturbance, such as hand collecting or digging, or panning. Contact the BLM Field Office or Forest Service Ranger District Office before conducting any surface disturbing activities on Federal land.

Mining Claims and Sites Information on Locating and Maintaining a Mining Claim or Site on Federal Land in New Mexico Service Charges and Fees Pamphlet “Mining Claims and Sites on Federal Lands" Locatable Minerals  Locating and Recording a Mining Claim/Site Maintaining a Mining Claim/Site NM State Statutes  (Chapter 69, Article 3) BLM Lands and Minerals Records System (LR 2000)

Surface Management Information on Surface Disturbing Activities on a Mining Claim or Site Checklists for Surface Management on BLM Land Notice Plan BLM Financial Assurance (Bonding) New Mexico Mining and Minerals Division (MMD) MMD Rules MMD Forms Guiding Regulations BLM 43 CFR 3800 Forest Service 36 CFR 228