The channels are meant to supply water to all of the salt ponds. Each pond has an input from one of the channels that run in the area. The opening can be managed as needed.

These have been in existence since pre-Incan times. They are operated as a cooperative. The salt is from the waters of the mountain streams that feed the facility. The salt is picked up from within the mountains. The Andes were formed from land pushing up from the level of the sea a long time back in history.