This study is concerned with the problem of collecting information on natural resources. It analyses the cost of effectiveness of various kinds of surveys and related techniques (for example, aerial photography, geological and soil studies, and forest surveys) under various conditions, distinguishing between "time-bound" information and information that is not time-bound. Guidelines are given for the organization and administration of information activities. The present state of natural resource information in Latin America is outlined, and the experience of Peru and Chile are discussed together with some general problems of small countries. A selected bibliography and an index are included. (EB)