Conservation or buffer zone
ANSTO is located 30 km south-west of the Sydney CBD, and is situated on a 70 hectare site surrounded by large areas of natural bushland to the west, north and south.
For historical reasons (see below), ANSTO maintains a 1.6 kilometre radius conservation zone or buffer zone, which occupies around 850 hectares in total. Portions of this land are leased to long-term tenants, such as Waste Services NSW.
A significant area of this land is pristine bushland which greatly enhances the scenic amenity of the area, and provides some protection to flora and fauna (see bush tracks below). Other areas have been degraded by current and previous activities, as well as illegal dumping. ANSTO is currently developing a 40-year plan for this important resource, ensuring that heritage aspects - including the preservation of rock art by the local Dharawal people - and effective conservation are built into a sustainable model.
The development of the ANSTO campus at Lucas Heights has always been accompanied by a "no development zone" which has a radius of 1.6 km.
Bush tracks
The following walking tracks have been marked and mapped in conjunction with the Menai Wildflower Group.