Along these canals the Russians established canal garrisons which were to control traffic and to protect the area in case of an attack. This historical aspect can be best seen in the 800 m long Kukonharju Canal located on the border between the municipalities of Ruokolahti and Puumala. Over a period of time, an entire small community consisting of officers, soldiers, merchants and civilians grew up along this canal.

The "military canals" constructed by General Suvorov represent the first major canal construction project completed in Finland. These four "open canals" have enjoyed relative peace and quiet for the last 200 years, and the idea today is to preserve both the canals and their immediate surroundings through carefully planned restoration work. The area will also be provided with more information materials, and the canals will be further developed as cultural attractions well worth a visit.