In 2016, it was announced that the approximately 130 000 hectares of land would be permanently taken out of the economy. Even in the Karoo, which is not the dessert incidentally, that is a significant area. Land was purchased at good prices, contributions to schools and bursaries for learners were made and a feedlot was financed to mitigate the reduced livestock production. The question however is whether these communities will remain economically viable with the impact of the SKA.