A number of impact assessment studies have been conducted on the SKA site since 2006. The first Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study which focused on a 5km radius around the proposed KAT 7 radio telescope site was conducted in 2006 and a Record of Decision (RoD) was issued in October 2007. The second EIA study was undertaken in 2008, after the acquisition of the Meys Dam and Losberg Farms, which constitute the core site of the MeerKAT radio telescope. This study was undertaken to assess the impact of the MeerKAT. A RoD for this study was issued in July 2009. A Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) study is currently underway for phase 1 of the SKA project which is expected to begin in 2018.
The first EIA study was completed in 2007, the second study was completed in 2009. Both studies were conducted by Strategic Environmental Focus (SEF), an environmental consultancy company. The third study is the SEA which is currently underway, and it is being conducted by the CSIR.
Yes, the studies referred to are available for the residents of the SKA region to read. A copy is available at the public library in Carnarvon and another one is available at the SKA site.