Yanco Agricultural Institute is situated in northern Riverina of NSW at an elevation of 136m and is suited for temperate horticultural production.  Temperature can range from a minimum of -3ºC in winter to a maximum of 42ºC in summer with an average rainfall of 433mm.

YAI has 1068 ha of agricultural land with a wide range of soil types from grey self-mulching clays to light sandy soils. Irrigation requirements are supplied from the Burrinjuck and Blowering dams via the Murrumbidgee river and an extensive canal system.