Based in Colorado, FutaFriends was incorporated in 1999 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit private organization to defend the Futaleufu Valley from unsustainable development projects. In the mid 1990's Endesa, a Spanish-owned power company, secured all the water rights to the Futaleufu River precluding the rights of the local people. A group of local community members, whitewater enthusiasts, and conservationists attempted to stop such abuse by funding legal advisors to act on behalf of the local municipal government. Ultimately, Endesa prevailed and the community lost control of their river. This defeat inspired the birth of FutaFriends, formerly known as FutaFund.

FutaFriends has expanded to working with local groups and tourism outfitters simultaneously in order to connect the community with the tourism industry. Operations include community development through tourism promotion and sustainable practices. Working with local groups, FutaFriends aims to strengthen and increase community participation and interest in protecting the Futaleufu Valley and its tributaries. Community education programs focused on youth and adults alike aim to integrate sustainable alternatives to resource degrading practices, such as deforestation and slash-and-burn agriculture.

Strengthening the local economy represents a key component for securing permanent protection for the river and the community. Traditionally a peasant culture shaped by a wild indomitable landscape, many locals are beginning to realize the benefits from tourism. As this and other activities grow while improving living standards, so does the number of locals willing to fight for their land, traditions, and self-determination to choose their own future.

FutaFriends serves as an educational resource and helps coordinate international interest to the region's conservation. Our organization provides funding for local groups working for the future of the Futaleufu Valley, developing a tourism-based economy, small-scale sustainable agriculture, strong local traditions, conservation of landscapes, and an increase in income-generating opportunities for local community members.