I looked at a zone map and don't think you need to worry about a heater. Remember, if the temerature drops it will just slow down the worms not hurt them. You don't get freezing weather very much do you? It would need to stay cold enough to freze the plumbing to hurt the worms. i really only use the plastic totes that you can get at any variety store, 10 to 18 gallon. They work perfectly if you set them up properly with the holes and proper bedding. Do a search on bin setup and you will find all the information you need. Here is a great site for kids/worms if you have access to a computer: http://www.ciwmb.ca.gov/Vermi/ Good luck and let us know how it goes.

Try the following website http://www.klickitatcounty.org/solidwaste/FilesHtml/Organics/OscrJunior.pdf

It is pretty clear, cheap and easy to build.

GI Jane

Hi Ellix,

I have kept a worm bin at my school for third graders to put their lunch scraps in. I just used a rubbermaid bin with holes drilled in the top, sides and bottom, and used peat moss for the bedding. We're in CA so the bin stays outside all the time. I think you could do the same with a bin inside, just make sure that you have something under it in case of dripping. And be careful it does not get too wet as then it will start to smell.

I would highly recommend the book Worms Eat My Garbage by Mary Appelhof which is available used through Amazon, or your library probably has a copy. It will really inspire you!

Good luck!

Thanks all