berm

thumb|Embankment dam with two berms

A berm is a level space, shelf, or raised barrier (usually made of compacted soil) separating areas in a vertical way, especially partway up a long slope. It can serve as a terrace road, track, path, a fortification line, a border/separation barrier for navigation, good drainage, industry, or other purposes. It can also be used on hunting property. For general applications, a berm is a physical, stationary barrier of some kind.