Depends on how much you've got to fill it up with and lots of other factors but I think a minimum size for the pile is 3' x 3' x 3' in order for it to heat up and 'cook' properly. Think I read that heights over 5' can compact too much because of weight and inhibit the necessary O2 that's needed within the pile. Chicken wire can work for containment but might need supports such as stakes around the outside to keep it from collapsing/tipping.
kath
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