I love this product! I added it to a new 2X8 bed that had a watering system in the bottom. I added 500 worms to the bed near the basket and started adding kitchen and yard waste. I estimate the worms are breaking down about a gallon to one foot square amount of waste a week. Once a month or so I emptied the basket by putting uncomposted waste aside and then digging out the worm casting, but OMG it's black gold on the garden. The top may lock well enough, but I added some bungee cords to keep any wanna bee critters out by sliding through the top holes. These may eventually rot, I don't know. Highly recommend.