Hi
I'm new to this site also, I've only been reading so far, but I'm impressed. you should have no problem getting all the info you need.
you got your work cut out for you, as a welder, machinist and a general tinkerer you can feel free to pick my brain, I've been prospecting and placer mining for more than 20 years as a hobby. I'm kind of jealous, sounds like you have the opportunity to start something fun. Cross your T's and Dot your I's, its the little things that will get you.
Good luck
Mike