2016 Annual Report · 2017-08-22 · FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER I 2016 ANNUAL REPORT | 3 2 2016 was a historic year for Patagonia’s threatened Futaleufu River. Thanks to people all over

2016 Annual ReportFUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® Foundation

For the Year Ending December 31, 2016

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2016 was a historic year for Patagonia’s threatened

Futaleufu River. Thanks to people all over the globe, a 20-

year fight to stop the dams ended when Endesa gave up

its water rights to the river.

With your help we also won other important battles. In

early December, Chile’s Committee of Ministers granted

us an important victory. The Committee approved our

proposal to establish a Zone of Touristic Interest along the

river corridor. This is a major shift in national policymaking

for the Futaleufu. The ZOIT sets the stage for regulating

growth and working with landowners along the river.

On the legal side, we won an important water rights

opposition. Working with five other groups from the

coastal village of Chaiten, we blocked a private company

from drying up several smaller rivers in a ridiculous

water exportation scheme. This is the first attempt to

expropriate water we’ve seen in our region, but it will not

be the last.

Local enforcement included supporting the new

Town Environmental Committee to investigate citizen

complaints. Our Executive Director Rocio Gonzalez served

as TEC chair in 2016. In its first year the TEC filed one

complaint in an illegal dumping case in Laguna La Paz, is

a popular beach destination for residents.

We hope you enjoy this Annual Report. It includes major

milestones, financial information, our team, supporters

and partners. We look forward to working with you to

continue protecting this beautiful watershed. There is

urgent work to be done, and the Futaleufú River deserves

a strong advocate. Your continued support will fund

legal work, coalition-building, research, mapping, and

community outreach.

About This Report

This report is for supporters of FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER®,

a Chilean foundation established in 2012 and a member of

WATERKEEPER® ALLIANCE. If you wish to support our work

through giving or other means, please visit our website:

http://www.futaleufuriverkeeper.org. This report is also

available in Spanish.

Introduction

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Table of Contents

· Energy Policy

Team and Supporters 20

Riverkeeper Volunteer Program 22

Staff Training 24

Alliances 26

Outreach 30

Social Media 32

Events and Meetings 34

Opinion Leaders 36

Our Donors 38

The Power of B-Corps 40

In-Kind Support 42

Corporate Governance 44

Financial Report 46

Introduction 3

Letter From the Executive Director 6

About Us 8

Mission 9

Vision 9

2016 Milestones 10

· Endesa Renounces Water Rights to the Futaleufu

· Riverkeeper Requests Rights to Block Water

Speculators

· Futaleufu River ZOIT Approved

· Riverkeeper Halts Plan to Dry up Local Rivers

Projects 16

· Monitoring and Enforcement

· Sustainable Development

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Dear Supporters,

Thank you for another great year! 2016 was full of big

accomplishments for saving the Futaleufu. The most

significant for our community was Endesa’s renunciation

of its water rights over the Futaleufú and Espolón Rivers.

Fundación Futaleufú Riverkeeper is now managing

the possibility of maintaining the Futaleufú River for

conservation purposes. For the first time in 20 years, the

Futaleufú River runs free.

To achieve our mission and ensure sustainable development

of the watershed, our Foundation organized its main

objectives into a 2016 Annual Action Plan that include three

major programs: Watershed Monitoring and Enforcement,

Anti-Dams Policymaking, and Sustainable Development. It

also included two secondary programs, fundraising and

communications. All programs are interdependent.

Some of the most outstanding achievements of 2016 include

the monitoring of Endesa, which renounced its rights to

exploit the waters of the Futaleufú and Espolón Rivers,

and our immediate request of the rights for conservation

purposes. This was a historical feat that only happened

thanks to the perseverance of communities and relevant

actors fighting for over 20 years to recover the river.

Also notable is the approval of the Futaleufu Watershed

Zone of Touristic Interest (ZOIT) by Chile’s Committee

of Ministers, as part of our Sustainable Development

program, in which we served as managing entity. We

also grew our presence within the local, national and

international communities, demonstrated by the increase

in volunteers, recognition as an information source, and

assistance on environmental complaints, various events,

and strengthening support networks in Chile and abroad.

We still face fundraising challenges, but we can proudly say

some of our top donors are B-Corp companies in the U.S.,

including Patagonia Inc. in California and Breckinridge

Advisors in Boston, who believe in and support our mission

and with whom we share values of local development and

environmental protection.

We continued strengthening partnerships with Yale

University’s Environmental Protection Clinic, which for

the third time approved our research proposal in Chile.

Letter From the Executive Director

Likewise, we hosted volunteers and students from Chile’s

Universidad Austral de Chile, INACAP technical institute,

and partners from other threatened watersheds motivated

to protect the Futaleufú River in Chile and abroad.

In this way, Fundación Futaleufú Riverkeeper has been

able to position itself as a relevant actor in the protection

of our watershed and support to the community, working

on both local projects and in national and international

diffusion.

In addition, in 2016 we updated our bylaws and renewed

our board of directors. Our legal status is fully in force.

Our board is the central body that, besides overseeing

the administrative and economic management of the

foundation, actively participates in our activities

For the 2017 year, we hope to work on deepening

conservation and sustainable development issues.

Challenges include involving even more community and

local companies in protecting the watershed; expanding

our work team and our network of volunteers; continuing

to generate studies and projects to conserve the watershed

and provide alternatives to the threats that exist today;

and influencing public policies related to protected areas

and power generation that may affect Futaleufú and its

communities.

Fundación Futaleufú Riverkeeper has been able to carry

out its activities thanks to the support of its donors,

volunteers, and a work team strongly committed to our

mission. We are aware of our challenges, and we have also

witnessed how communities have been strengthened and

want a sustainable future. We are happy to say we are part

of this community and their struggle, and that we will

continue working for the protection of the Futaleufú and

the rivers of Chile.

Sincerely,

Rocio Gonzalez Saldivia

Executive Director and Riverkeeper

January, 2017

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Mission Our Mission is to protect and conserve the natural,

economic, cultural, aesthetic and economic heritage

of the Futaleufu River and its surroundings. We do

this through education, legal work and other actions,

preserving the integrity of the watershed for the

community to enjoy and thrive, and for all those who

visit.

VisionOur vision is for the Futaleufu watershed to be known

as a national treasure and heritage for humanity. We

want the community of Futaleufu to be recognized as an

international model for sustainable development. We seek

to represent the interests of the Futaleufu watershed in

front of government, private institutions, and any entity

threatening the integrity of our rivers.

About usFUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® is a Chilean non-profit foundation established in 2012. We

work in the town of Futaleufu, which is part of the Yelcho watershed in Chilean Patagonia.

The Yelcho is home to several endemic species, as well as global destinations like the

Futaleufu River and Parque Pumalín. We work alongside our communities to take actions

that support the protection of the watershewd. At the national level, we also develop

alliances to support policymaking about rivers. Our work also extends beyond borders. We

seek out river lovers around the globe to support our community in calling for a protected

Futaleufu.

Futaleufú

CHILEFutaleufú

CHILOÉ

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2016 Milestones August 30th, 2016. On this date, Endesa’s board of

directors voted to renounce water rights to five major

rivers in southern Chile, including the Futaleufu. The

decision ended a 20-year battle to stop dams on the

Futaleufu and bolstered our proposal to list the river as a

zone of touristic interest. In giving up the rights, Endesa

cited “lack of social adhesion” as one of the factors leading

to its decision.

The move followed public acknowledgment by an Endesa

executive in 2014 that the company was concerned about

local opposition from Riverkeeper and other actors. It also

came after Endesa spent six months trying to sell its water

rights to avoid paying millions in fines. Thanks to years

of campaigning and a vocal community, Endesa failed to

find a buyer. Markets understand risk. With your help and

the help of local leaders and alliances, we made that risk

clear.

With help from international press, we broke the story

about Endesa’s surprise move. We also developed a rapid

response legal plan with our attorneys (see below).

Our path going forward is clear. We will form a coalition to

set aside the water rights for conservation purposes and

empower our community to protect the Fu.

Endesa Renounces Water Rights to the Futaleufu

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September 1st, 2016. Two days after Endesa gave up on

the Futaleufu, our team traveled to Chaiten, the capital of

the province. Working with our attorneys, we developed a

plan. We filed paperwork to block water speculators from

claiming the rights until we can develop a permanent

plan.

This is the first time a conservation group has sought

water rights to protect a major waterway in Chile. Now

the momentum is on our side. Several local stakeholders

are developing conservation projects. This community

deserves to decide what to do with its river, and we intend

on fighting for them.

But the work is not over. Requesting the rights is a strategic

move. It buys us time to build national and international

support for protected river. We need to do this before

market demand returns. Right now, nobody needs the

1,400 MW the dams would have generated. Chile has an

energy surplus. It is now exporting energy to neighboring

countries like Argentina. As research from our project with

Yale’s Environmental Protection Clinic shows, other types

of energy like solar or wind are far better. Chile can reach

100% renewable energy by 2050 with no new hydropower.

But this can change fast. Efforts to bring more industry

into the province will reignite demand for the dams.

Mining projects across the border in Argentina are a

constant cause for concern. And a tourism boom threatens

Futaleufu’s rural Patagonian culture.

While 2016 gave cause to celebrate, Futaleufu can still

become a sacrifice zone if we don’t unite and act. As

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. wrote, “river conservation is as

difficult as democracy. There are no permanent victories.

The only thing we ever really win is the opportunity to

keep fighting.”

Read the full article by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., A History of

Democracy and Rivers.

Riverkeeper Requests

Rights to Block Water

Speculators

December 23rd. Chile’s Committee of Ministers voted

to approve the Futaleufu River as a Zone of Touristic

Interest. This followed more than two years of joint

work together with the Tourism Divisions of the towns

of Futaleufu and Palena.

The ZOIT establishes a long-term vision for tourism

growth in the watershed. It highlights the pristine

natural heritage of the river valley. Futaleufu has a

comparative advantage over other areas that do not

emphasize conservation. One of the ZOIT’s goals is to

reduce negative impacts of tourism while funneling

resources to sustainable infrastructure in the

watershed.

As a legal tool, the ZOIT offers extra protection. It

requires certain projects to file an Environmental

Impact Statement. In Chile, the EIS review process

is similar to the United States. It allows citizen

involvement and establishes criteria for approving,

modifying or rejecting permits.

We are excited about the specific project proposals

included in the ZOIT Action Plan. Proposals include a

scenic route at the entrance to Futaleufu, bike paths,

rural and urban parks, and improving access to the

Futaleufu River. It will also establish Geosites, places

where tourists can learn about biodiversity. This work

is now continuing in 2017 under the umbrella of a new

citizen committee. Thank you to everyone who has

supported this project!

Click here to read the Official Declaration.

Futaleufu River ZOIT Approved

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In September our office received a call from a regional

official. The official was concerned about a strange water

rights request. During our investigation, FUTALEUFU

RIVERKEEPER® uncovered a plan to dry up four rivers

in the province. The plan would use a barge system to

ship the water north, out of the region. This would mean

industrializing the port village of Chaiten. We caught this

at the first public glimpse of the plan. No project has been

submitted for environmental review.

Together with five community groups in Chaiten, we

opposed the request on technical and substantive

grounds. But the requesting entity can resubmit at any

time, meaning we must remain alert. Recent developments

in the Palena province are a concern. A new commercial

road is being built into the Espolon Valley. In 2017 we

will continue forming a coalition of people worried

about industrial development in the Palena Province and

carry out mapping and film projects to document these

concerns.

Riverkeeper Halts Plan to Dry up Local Rivers

Looking Forward

Plenty of challenges remain to protect the

Futaleufu, but the good news is that we are winning. With your continued support,

FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® will be able to investigate

legal claims, form alliances, advocate for

stronger protective measures, and empower

leaders in our community to take other conservation

measures.

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Projects

Riverkeeper staff and volunteers worked on three monitoring

projects in 2016: 1) Requesting non-consumptive water

rights to the Futaleufu; 2) Winning an administrative

opposition to a consumptive water rights request; and

3) Supporting a local enforcement action through the

Town Environmental Committee. See Milestones for more

information.

Community concerns about drinking water and tourism

growth continue to pose a problem. As our team grows,

we hope to be able to respond to these risks. To report a

concern or speak to a member of our staff, please call us

or send an email to [email protected].

Monitoring and Enforcement

In 2016 FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® administered eight projects. These form

three programs: Monitoring and Enforcement, Sustainable Development, and

Energy Policy. Each program plays a role in efforts to protect the watershed. If

you would like to support a specific project, please call us at 914-357-4837 or

email at [email protected]

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Energy Policy

Sustainable DevelopmentFutaleufu is growing, and with it concerns about

tourism and development. In 2016 we supported three

transformative projects: 1) Establishing a Zone of Touristic

Interest along the river corridor (See Milestones); 2)

Providing administrative and financial support to create a

sustainable local food system; and 3) Mapping ecosystems

in the watershed.

The local food project, Futa Sano, supports the local

economy and culture and gives access to more nutritious

produce. Phase One was supported by a Chilean government

grant to conduct a community food assessment and

feasibility study. This local food project will launch in

November 2017. Please contact us to learn more and how

you can support local initiatives.

In 2016, two researchers conducted field research to

map the watershed and generate baseline data. The

researchers- Chilean student Marilyn Aguilar (Universidad

Austral de Chile) and Chilean-American geography

Master’s student Dominique Haller (UNC- Greensboro),

assisted FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® to identify wetlands

and other ecosystems in the watershed. They achieved

this through GPS mapping and identification of native

flora and fauna.

These projects provide real, practical solutions to preserve

the cultural and environmental heritage. As our community

grapples with growth, we will continue to research and

share best practices. Ideas include developing a Sister

City program, publishing mapping data, and converting

Casa Butler into a community Eco-Center.

During 2016, FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® conducted two

important investigations to influence policymaking: 1)

Critical Analysis of the Ministry of Energy’s Watershed

Mapping Study; and 2) Analyzing Hydropower in Chile.

This research shows how Chile can become a global leader

on climate change while protecting free-flowing rivers at

the same time.

The first report looks at the Ministry of Energy’s Watershed

Mapping Study, which seeks to maximize hydropower in

watersheds like the Futaleufu. We distributed the report in

the community of Futaleufu and nationally through clean

water networks. We also presented it to policymakers in

the Ministry of Energy, during meetings held in Futaleufú

and Santiago. The report author, Ivo Tadich, holds a

Master’s in Science in Water Resources from Universidad

Austral de Chile.

The second report, begun in late 2016, is by Ross Donihue

and Jessica Leung. Both are graduate students at Yale

University’s School of Forestry and Environmental Science.

The report examines a 2015 Stanford study on solar and

wind potential around the world. Their findings show Chile

could actually cut existing hydropower in half by 2050.

This means the country could decommission and remove

several large dams, like the Ralco and Pangue Dams on

the Biobio River. One of the report’s recommendations is

to study existing dams to see which make economic sense

to remove.

In early 2017, the researchers traveled to Chile to meet with

local stakeholders in Patagonia. They also presented draft

recommendations to government officials in Santiago.

Both the final report and accompanying infographics will

be published during the second half of 2017.

These research projects provide experience for students

and valuable data

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Team and Supporters

FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® is a small organization. Our core team now

consists of three staff members and a dozen volunteer collaborators. Our

board of directors is a mix of Chilean and Americans, including attorneys,

entrepreneurs and outdoor lovers. You can view bios on our Staff and

Collaborators page.

Since 2015, we have worked out of a renovated cabin in Futaleufu

built by the Troncoso family, known as Casa Butler. Use of Casa Butler

for conservation purposes is possible through an agreement with the

Butler Conservation Fund (BCF). BCF owns the property and supports

conservation efforts around the globe, including Patagonia. BCF’s

generous gift allows us to work in a cozy space, host volunteers, and

support conservation initiatives in the watershed.

As a small organization, partnerships are key to driving

our impact. Aside from our volunteer program, we also

rely on media relationships, social media, and research.

We also work on coalition-building to set up alliances in

Chile that amplify our work (See Alliances below).

In 2017, with a grant from Patagonia and additional

funding, FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® will train three

new local leaders. This will expand our team through

our Amplifying Voices in Patagonia project. With the

grant, we will produce short videos and photography

about life in Futaleufu. These stories will show how the

local community views conservation and development

challenges. You can subscribe to our email listserv to

receive new content here.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

VOLUNTEERS

COMMUNICATIONS

FUNDRAISING

SUSTAINABLE

DEVELOPMENT

MONITORING &

ENFORCEMENT

LOCAL DIFUSSION

NATIONAL &

INTERNATIONAL DIFFUSION

ACADEMIC

RESEARCHERS

ANTI-DAMS POLICYMAKING

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR

Org chart as it appears in FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER’s 2016 FECU

Casa Butler, Futaleufu: Home of Futaleufu River-keeper since 2015!

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Riverkeeper Volunteer Program

Chile is experiencing a second wave of environmentalism. We are

tapping into this generation to support our programs in exchange

for providing experience. These future leaders are playing a role in

restoring basic human rights like the right to water.

In 2016, FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® established a pilot program to

recruit and train promising young volunteers looking to gain experience in

environmental stewardship. In its first year we worked with 27 volunteers,

including a dozen from Chile.

Together, our volunteers contributed more than 1,850 hours of

volunteer work. Thank you so much to the following river lovers!

Supporting Free-Flowing Rivers

Jane Koopman, Outdoor Instructor, NOLS, Utah, US

Lydia Bleifuss, Rafting Guide, Colorado, US

Jens Benohr, Concepción, Chile

Paulo Urrutia, Concepcion, Chile

Matt Murphy, Montana, US

Jennice Rodriguez, Nevada, US

Lauren Megaw, Stanford Earth Systems, California, US

Caroline Jonsson, West Virginia, US

Maine Winter Sports Center Students, Maine, US

Canela Astorga, San Alfonso, Chile

Andrea Becerra, Boston, US / Santiago, Chile

Juana Ringeling, Los Angeles, CA, US / Zapallar, Chile

Pía Weber Salazar, Melbourne, AU / Valparaíso, Chile

Supporting Community Programs and Watershed

Mapping

Dominique Haller, North Carolina, US / Los Queñes, Chile

Taitum Lystad, Colorado, US

Natalia Ibañez, Futaleufu, Chile

Fabian Ibañez, Futaleufú, Chile

Cecilia Uribe, Futaleufu, Chile

Marilyn Aguilar G., Valdivia, Chile

Lauren de Remer, California, US

Mike O´Donnell, Futaleufu, Chile

Erica Saldivia, Puerto Montt, Chile

Supporting Anti-Dams Energy Policy

Ivo Tadich, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, US

Jessica Leung, Yale University, CT, US

Ross Donihue, Yale University, CT, US

Jens Benohr, Concepción, Chile

Marilyn Aguilar G., Valdivia, Chile

Volunteer researcher Dominique Haller visits from UNC Greensboro as part of an ongoing ma-pping project.

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Staff Training

To improve our team’s ability to work efficiently, we participated in

workshops and presented at events in 2016. These include internal

and external training on topics like strategy, fundraising and social

media.

In July, our Executive Director Rocio Gonzalez attended the annual

WATERKEEPER Conference. She met with Waterkeepers from 30 countries

around the globe.

In September, two team members participated in a gathering in the

mountain village of Linares. The village sits along the threatened

Achibueno River. The conference, organized by Fundación Hualo,

brought together leaders from different groups around the country

working to protect free-flowing rivers. Coalition-building work will

continue in 2017.

In October, our International Director traveled to Santiago to join

a panel discussion on the Politics of Water at the Museum of Visual

Arts, located in the Lastarria neighborhood. Featured at the museum

was an exhibit by Chilean artist Gianfranco Foschino. The artist made

the Futaleufu River the centerpiece of his latest collection, Ojos del

Agua.

In November, our Executive and International Directors traveled to

the Aysen region in Patagonia for a seminar organized by Justicia

y Paz Aysen (Justice and Peace Aysen). Participants included

community leaders from Chile, Argentina, and the Wallmapu

(traditional Mapuche lands, which encompass parts of present-day

Chile and Argentina). Our team also participated in other events

throughout the year.

From September through early 2017, we helped promote and

participate in the National Circuit of River Festivals. The circuit began

with the Guardian del Maipo festival near Santiago and ended in

February with Futaleufu XL. These festivals are great ways to engage

the public and connect community leaders across watersheds.

Additional Thanks

In addition to supporters, FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER®

wishes to thank the following organizations for their

independent but related work on river advocacy in 2016.

Justicia y Paz Aysen

Ñuble Libre

No Alto Maipo

Fundación Hualo

Ecosistemas

Museo de Artes Visuales

Gianfranco Foschino

Bestias del Sur Salvaje

Chile Sustentable

Fundación Newenko

International Rivers

WATERKEEPER ALLIANCENRDC

American Whitewater

American Rivers

Hydro Reform Coalition

Los Queñes Sin Represas

Gianfranco Foschino MAVI

Executive Diretor Rocio Gonzalez speaking with Radio Santa Maria in Coyhaique, November 2016.

Executive Director Rocio Gonzalez presenting with Marclea Mella, co-spokesperson for the No Alto Maipo campaign. Coyhaique, November 2012.

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26 AlliancesGroups as small as ours cannot achieve our ambitious goals alone.

Protecting critical natural resources like the Futaleufu means

building local, regional, national and international partnerships.

Through these alliances we can address larger systemic issues that

impact the Futaleufu.

In 2016, FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® participated in setting up two major

alliances of NGOs and professionals. Both are continuing into 2017.

Accion ConservaciónAcción Conservación is a coalition started by four

environmental groups in Chile. The coalition is backed

by Patagonia, which also awards grants in Chile to

nonprofits. In 2016 Accion Conservacion organized

two gatherings for NGO leaders and environmental

professionals, on the topics of Unity and Financing.

The third gatherion public policy will take place in the

first half of 2017. Participants from our team include

International Director Patrick J. Lynch, board member

Nicole Ellena of MVMT Comunicaciones, and attorney

Roberto Peralta, who was a speaker at the second

gathering on NGO Financing.

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Alianza de Rios

In the United States, organizations like American Rivers

and American Whitewater boost local river efforts to

reduce impacts of existing dams and advocate for dam

removals. Since 2015 we have sought to unite river

lovers through the Kayak Stewards Program and support

parallel efforts to establish a national river alliance. In

2016, river advocates and community leaders gathered

in the town of Linares, along the Achibueno River,

to learn from each other and discuss needs in each

watershed. There is interest in establishing a network

of free-flowing rivers. This work will produce two

additional gatherings in 2017: in February in the town of

San Fabian de Alico, where our partners at Ñuble Libre

are organizing the fight, and in August in the town of

Los Queñes, home to Los Queñes Sin Represas. In 2016,

our staff also traveled to the U.S. to meet with directors

from American Whitewater and American Rivers to seek

technical support (see Outreach below).

If you want to learn more about these alliances, please

let us know.

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Outreach2016 was another active year for getting campaigns about the

Futaleufu into the press. Our team published or appeared in the press

over 20 times, including local, national and international media. We

distributed materials at events, conducted global outreach, and

invited community members to visit Casa Butler and learn about our

work.

In the Press

In July, our International Director published an article in

Patagon Journal with support from the Earth Journalism

Network on Climate Change and Rivers in Patagonia.

Supporter Don Weeden, director of the Weeden Foundation,

also published a piece exploring private conservation tools

that could effectively protect the Futaleufu river corridor.

In late 2016, we also worked with our partners at Patagon

Journal to brainstorm and develop content for a special

edition of the magazine entitled Rivers of Chile. The issue

includes articles by Riverkeeper partners and collaborators,

including Natalia Ibañez, a native of Futaleufú. The issue

was circulated throughout Chile and abroad, with articles

also appearing on Patagon Journal’s website.

In 2017 our team will continue sharing our work to the

rest of the world. This includes seeking out journalists,

photographers and researchers. Please let us know if

you’re interested or know someone who is.

Outside Online - Chile’s Best Whitewater Rivers Won’t

be Dammed - For Now, by Grayson Shaffer

EcoWatch - A History of Rivers and Democracy in Chile -

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Patagon Journal - Cautious Optimism over Endesa

Decision

Mongabay

Revista Landie

Revista Endémico

BioBio Chile

Free Speech Radio News

International Rivers

El Dínamo

Ladera Sur

Futuro RenovableInformational materials available in Casa Butler, Futaleufu Riverkeeper headquarters

Patagon Journal published a special edition on rivers in 2016.

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Social MediaUse of Social Media continued to grow in 2016. At year-end we had 7,500

followers, a 25% increase in the final six months of 2016. FUTALEUFU

RIVERKEEPER® engages our supporters mainly through three platforms:

Facebook (5,100), Instagram (1,600) and Twitter (740).

To reach more people around the globe, FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® has

enlisted a Communications Advisor in 2017. This advisor will guide story

development, photography and videography. Cecilia Uribe, a former volunteer

born and raised in Futaleufu, has also taken over as part-time director of

communications.

In 2017 we look forward to secure social media partners, and telling

the story of why the Futaleufu deserves to be protected.

Email Updates

FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® maintains a listserv with

over 1,000 members. Listserv members receive periodic

news bulletins.

In 2016 our open rate ranged from 15-34%, while our click

rate ranged from 6-22%. Through this service, we also

launched an online Year-End Campaign in which several of

you came together and pledged over $10,000 in December.

We look forward to rebooting and improving this service

in the second half of 2017.

To subscribe to our email listserv, add your name and

email here.

Dani Casado, our new Communications Advisor.

Cecliia Uribe Communications

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Events and Meetings

Futaleufu is a far-off watershed in an isolated region of the world. To engage

supporters, FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® staff conducted a month-long

outreach trip in June 2016, following the annual Waterkeeper Conference.

Meetings were held at the Environmental Law Institute, NRDC, American Rivers,

and the Hydro Reform Coalition. Our staff presented and tabled with the help

of volunteers, collaborators and in-kind donors. Venues included Telluride

Mountainfilm Fest and Patagonia stores in three cities. We also participated

in events in Chile. Notable events include Lollapalooza-Chile and PuescoFest,

an annual gathering celebrating rivers, human rights and music. The next

PuescoFest will be happening in November 2017. Don’t miss it!

U.S.

Telluride Mountanfilm, CO, US

Tompkins Conservation, San Francisco, CA

International Rivers, Berkeley, CA

Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA

Chile-California Council, Palo Alto, CA

Yale University, New Haven, CT

American Whitewater, Asheville, NC

Nantahala Outdoor Center, Asheville, NC

American Rivers, Washington, DC

Natural Resources Defense Council, Washington, DC

Environmental Law Institute, Washington, DC

Patagonia Georgetown, Washington, DC

Potomac WATERKEEPER, Washington, DC

Anacostia RIVERKEEPER, Washington, DC

Hudson RIVERKEEPER, Ossining, NY

Patagonia Meatpacking, New York, NY

WATERKEEPER ALLIANCE, New York, NY

Breckinridge Financial Advisors, Boston, MA

Patagonia Newbury St., Boston, MA

Friends of Casco Bay/Casco Baykeeper, Portland, ME

Chile

Futaleufu Mountainfilm, Futaleufu, Chile

Futaleufu XL, Futaleufu, Chile

PuescoFest, Curraruehue, Chile

Lollapalooza, Santiago, Chile

Futaleufu Riverkeeper staff preparing for a month of backpacking and couchsurfing in June, 2016.

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Opinion Leaders

In 2016 FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® amplified our call through partnerships

with notable people. We seek people who are passionate about environmental

work and are willing to lend their voice and image to support conservation.

We look forward to continuing these relationships in 2017 and expanding

outreach to reach a wider audience.

Juana Ringeling Congratulates Futaleufu

Juanita Ringeling is a Chilean actress and activist. She

grew up along one of central Chile’s last remaining coastal

cloud forests. There she learned to surf and gained an

appreciation for conservation. Her family’s decade-long

campaign to protect the forest resulted in Parque Bosque

de Zapallar, a few hours from the capital of Santiago.

When news broke about Endesa relinquishing rights to

the river, Juana was with us to celebrate. Her video went

viral, with over 50,000 views. She also called to change

the paradigm in Chile and supports water code reforms to

help end the privatization of rivers. You can read her full

post on our website.

In 2016, Juana relocated to Los Angeles, California. You

can follow her travels and campaigns on both Instagram

and Twitter.

Leonardo DiCaprio shares the News

Too often, communities like ours face an uphill battle

protecting our homes. The story of the Futaleufu is

inspiring, not just for other communities around the

world but also for advocates. This is what Oscar-winning

actor and activist, Leonardo DiCaprio, had to say about

it:

“Inspired by these activists who accomplished a huge

victory for Patagonia’s Futaleufu River. They’re a great

example of what a few people can do with dedication.”

Mr. DiCaprio is the founder of the Leonardo DiCaprio

Foundation, which since 1999 has supported environmental

causes around the world. You can follow their work here.

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Our Donors

People have been working to protect the Futaleufu for more than 20

years, ever since Endesa first obtained water rights and started plans

to dam it. Since our founding in 2012, we have seen how many people

are willing to fight for our community and its river.

Below are the individuals and organizations who provided direct

financial support in 2016. The majority of our supporters are

individuals and families, providing 71% of funds.

Patrons ($5,000-$10,000)

Patagonia Inc.

Anonymous

Scott Fitzmorris

Breckinridge Capital Advisors

Scott McKay

Weeden Foundation

Major Donors ($1,000-$5,000)

David Bonderman

Patricia Rogers

James Spidle

Stephanie and Scott Haig

Supporters ($500-$1,000)

Robert Spich

Tom Goss (in memory of Alex Goss)

Justin Nowell

Bob Martin

Nick Zackerl

Amigos ($25-250)

Todd Temkin

Janae Magee

Chad Belinsky

Nicole Ellena Hurtado

Juan de Díos Ortuzar

O.A.R.S. Whitewater Rafting

L.A. WATERKEEPERRichardson Household

Bobbi-Jo Dobush

Adrianna Kripke & Bryan Miller

Fields Marshall

Freund Household

Ebrahemi Household

Lafleur Household

Rogers Household

Kripke Household

Claudia Romero

Hallee Household

Krista Selnau

Jenn Rodriguez

Michael Halbert

Jane Koopman

FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® 2016 Donors

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The Power of B-Corps

The Rise of B-Corps, or social benefit corporations, continues to

make inroads around the globe. As more companies adopt a social

commitment in their model, environmental causes in Chile stand

to benefit. More awareness, innovative ideas, and greater access

to funds are all benefits of working with socially-responsible

businesses. We believe B-Corps and their partners can play a major

role in protecting critical natural resources like the Futaleufu.

Patagonia. In 2016 FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® was awarded

a grant from Patagonia for our project, Amplifying Voices

in Patagonia. The grant provides community leaders with

training in 2017. This will build up grassroots campaigns,

including an alliance of kayakers. This is the third

Patagonia grant awarded to the foundation. In 2016, we

also presented our work at three Patagonia store locations

in the U.S.

Breckinridge Capital Advisors. Through their Social

Charitable Committee, Breckinridge selects a number of

NGOs to support each year. The firm manages $26.9 billion

in assets, and in 2015 donated 1% of gross revenues to

environmental causes. B-Corp companies like Breckinridge

and Patagonia are making a difference in the world.

Moye White, LLP. Since 2012, our Pro Bono Law Firm in the

U.S. has been Moye White LLP, a Denver-based law firm. In

July 2016, our board of directors voted to approve Moye

White partner Trish Rogers as a board member. Trish will

serve a two-year position through 2018. We look forward

to relying on Trish’s guidance and the advice from one of

the leading law firms in the Rocky Mountains.

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In-Kind support came from photographers, universities, nonprofits,

B-corps, filmmakers, and other people. The total value of these

services and in-kind donations are invaluable. Thank you for all your

support!

Organizations

Butler Conservation Fund, New York, US

Telluride Mountainfilm, CO, US

Patagonia Meatpacking, New York, US

Patagonia Georgetown, DC, US

Patagonia Newbury St, MA, US

MVMT Communications, Santiago, Chile

Fitzroya Media House, Futaleufu, Chile

Spices & Tease, NY, US

Barrington Coffee, Boston, MA, US

Café Mandala, Futaleufu

Constructora del Hospital, Futaleufu

JezReel, Futaleufu, Chile

Anacostia RIVERKEEPER, DC, US

Potomac RIVERKEEPER, DC, US

Hudson RIVERKEEPER, NY, US

LA WATERKEEPER, CA, US

Friends of Casco Bay, ME, US

Hugh McCormick Design, ME, US

Expediciones Chile, Futaleufu/ID

Étnico Hostel, Pucón, Chile

Patagon Journal, Puerto Varas, Chile

Chaitur Expediciones, Chaiten, Chile

Bryan Miller Photography, CA, US

Yale Environmental Protection Clinic, CT, US

Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Sciences, CT, US

UNC Greensboro, Department of Geology, NC, US

Global Water Conservation Fund, CO, US

International Ocean Film Tour, Worldwide

Radio Estrella del Mar, Futaleufu- Palena

Individuals

Fields Marshall, Pucon

Maria Elisa Vallejo, Futaleufu

Luis Miranda, Futaleufu

Erica Saldivia, Puerto Montt

Janine O’Donnell, NH, US

Antonio Petruzziello, NY, US

Henry Lystad, CO, US

Bryan Miller, CA, US

Janae Magee, CO, US

Susan Spelius, ID, US

Jacob Sedivy, Austria

Robbie Klimek, CO, US

Roger Spich, CA, US

Robbie Klimek, CO, US

Kindra Moore, CO, US

Fahren Devine, CO, US

Scott Fitzmorris, UT, US

Robbie and Jill O’Dell, CO

Jeb Schneider, TX, US

Richard Freund, CA, US

Bruce Reznik, CA, US

Ross Donihue, CT, US

Nadine Lehner, CA, US

Louise Capel, France

Wes McCue, MT, US

Kindra Moore, CO, US

Isabel Acuña, Futaleufu

Lorena Cañoles, Futaleufu

Melanie Kurtz, Futaleufu

Nancy Moore, Futaleufu

Stephanie Stefanski, Argentina / US

Don Lalo Vallejos, Futaleufu

Diego Redlich Moran, Futaleufu

Cariñocito, Futaleufu (for her friendship)

Javier Villegas, Futaleufu

Alejandro “Oso” Petit

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Corporate Governance

Board Updates. In July, the Board of Directors voted to add

three new independent members. Per Riverkeeper bylaws,

each board member serves a two-year term. New board

members include Attorney Trish Rogers from Colorado,

Filmmaker Nicole Ellena from Santiago, and Architect

Carlos Alberto Urzua from Santiago. Please welcome our

new members!

Full Board of Directors as of Dec 31, 2016:

Jose Luis Ibañez Santa Maria (President)

Scott J. McKay

Claudia Romero (Treasurer)

Patricia Rogers

Nicole Ellena Hurtado (Secretary)

Carlos Alberto Urzua

Bylaw Changes. At the July board meeting, the board of

directors voted unanimously to revise the Foundation’s

bylaws. These changes improve our ability to operate

as a lean, high-impact and independent organization.

Changes include reframing the mission to reflect our

growing focus on community work, procedural changes to

facilitate virtual meetings now permitted by Chilean law,

and clauses which under new legislation allow Riverkeeper

to apply for government grants while maintaining our

independence as a watchdog organization.

Transparency and Accountability. Chilean law requires annual

financial statements to be submitted to the government.

Under old legislation, foundations were also required to

submit a comprehensive form known as a FECU, which

breaks down expenditures by project and provides greater

detail. Although foundations are no longer required

to file the FECU, FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER’s senior

management made the decision to do it anyways. This

focus on transparency makes it easier for supporters to

see where your contribution goes. It also positions us as

a leader among Chilean environmental groups and sets

the standard for how NGOs can disclose use of funds. In

addition to reporting, our participation in alliances like

Acción Conservación allow us to learn and share best

practices based on the experience of other nonprofits in

Chile.Board Member Trish Rogers during a recent visit to Futaleufu.

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Financial Report

Comparison to Previous Year

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thank you to everyone who supported saving the

futaleufu river this yearTo learn more about FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® and what we are doing to

permanently protect the Futaleufu River in Chilean Patagonia, please follow our

social media accounts or subscribe to our email. You can also donate in 2017 to

support our current programs and continue protecting this amazing piece of the

planet. We need your help!

Follow:

Instagram

Twitter

Facebook:

Subscribe to our Listserv (add your name and email here)

Call us: 914-357-4837

Write: [email protected]

Send a Postcard:

Futaleufu Riverkeeper

Piloto Carmona 745

Futaleufu

Region de Los Lagos

República de Chile

Donate: We need your help! To make a contribution in

2017 and join the fight to save the Futaleufu, please visit

www.futaleufuriverkeeper.org/donate. And thank you!

FUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® is a member of

WATERKEEPER® ALLIANCE. WATERKEEPER® ALLIANCE

oversees and supports an international network of clean

water advocates working around the world to protect

our planet’s waterways and the public’s right to a

healthy environment. To learn more about the global

WATERKEEPER® movement and how to join, please visit

www.waterkeeper.org.

This report has been compiled using information obtained

during and after the 2016 calendar year. For questions

or comments, or to learn about how you can join the

effort to permanently protect the Futaleufu watershed in

Chilean Patagonia, please write to futaleufuriverkeeper@

gmail.com

Photographic credits:

Bryan Miller

Daniel Casado

Fernanda Neder

Design credits:

Camila Muñoz, Revista Endémico

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2016 Annual ReportFUTALEUFU RIVERKEEPER® Foundation

For the Year Ending December 31, 2016