Demi-lunes (half-moons) are earth embarkments in the shape of a semi-circle with the tips of the bunds on the contour. Demi-lunes can be constructed in a variety of sizes, with a range of both radius and bund dimensions. Construction is almost always by hand. The principle of the most common design of demi-lunes is to capture water from within the field. The radius for these smaller structures is generally 3 to 6 metres, with bunds of about 25 cm in height, and they are built in sequence over a whole plot. In this case they function as a microcatchment system. A modified, larger design of a semi-circular bund, with a diameter of 20 or more metres can act as a single planting plot and accommodate runoff from outside. As such it functions as an external catchment system.

Source: Critchley, W. Di Prima S. and Tuyp, W. 2012 "Sustainable Land Management in Sub-Saharan Africa" Information cards accompanying a box-set of 12 videos.

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