A baler and methods of operating a baler. The baler includes a housing defining an interior volume, the interior volume including a compression portion and a loading portion. The baler also includes a first closure movably coupled with the housing and operative to enclose the compression portion and a second closure movably coupled with the housing and operative to enclose the loading portion. Further, the baler includes a reciprocating compression assembly including a linear actuator and a platen operably coupled with the linear actuator. The platen is movable between a retracted position and an extended position in response to actuation of the linear actuator. Additionally, the first closure defines at least one recess therein and a lip extending about at least a portion of the at least one recess. The lip is operative to engage with compressible material disposed in the compression portion.