Dry straw repels water. ICAR-DMR wets it for 24 to 48 hours until it holds about 75 percent moisture, roughly 4000 litres per tonne, mixing in the nitrogen sources so fermentation starts everywhere at once.
Heap size follows climate. In the plains ICAR-DMR builds 100 to 120 cm wide; in the cooler hills 130 to 150 cm wide and about 150 cm high. A bigger heap holds heat and a small one never ferments, so never attempt less than 300 kg. Within two to three days the core should reach 65 to 70 °C.