South Dakota Landowner Licence Preference

Navigating the labyrinthine world of big game tags in South Dakota can feel like a high-stakes lottery, especially when you're a landowner trying to manage your property and contribute to wildlife conservation. It's frustrating when you dedicate your land and effort, only to face the same draw odds as everyone else. This comprehensive guide will meticulously break down the South Dakota landowner license preference system, explaining who qualifies, how to apply, and what it truly means for your hunting opportunities.

Understanding South Dakota's Landowner Preference System

For many years, South Dakota has recognized the vital role private landowners play in habitat conservation and wildlife management. A significant portion of the state's prime hunting ground is privately owned, and the health of its game populations—from massive pheasant numbers to thriving deer and antelope herds—often depends on the stewardship of these individuals. This understanding is precisely why the state developed its landowner preference system: to acknowledge their contribution and, in return, offer specific advantages in drawing hunting tags.

What Exactly is Landowner Preference?

At its heart, landowner preference in South Dakota is a mechanism designed to give eligible resident landowners a higher probability of drawing certain big game licenses compared to the general public. It's not a guaranteed tag for every species every year, but rather a weighted system that significantly improves your odds. The goal is to encourage landowners to participate in wildlife management and provide them with the opportunity to hunt the game that resides, at least partially, on their own land. It's a way of saying "thank you" for the habitat they provide and the management practices they often implement, whether through farming practices or dedicated conservation efforts. This system applies to various big game species, with nuances for each, creating a more intricate application process than simply checking a box.

The Philosophy Behind Landowner Tags

The philosophy underpinning landowner tags is multi-faceted. Firstly, it acknowledges that private lands are often crucial wildlife strongholds. When landowners are invested in hunting, they are often more inclined to implement practices beneficial to wildlife, such as maintaining cover, planting food plots, or even allowing controlled public access for activities like pheasant hunting. This system provides a tangible benefit, encouraging good land stewardship. Secondly, it aims to create a more equitable system for those who bear the costs and responsibilities of land ownership. Farmers and ranchers deal with crop damage, fence repairs, and other issues related to wildlife, and being able to hunt the animals that utilize their land is seen as a fair return. Lastly, it indirectly supports local economies by keeping more hunting opportunities within the state, often for residents who live and work there year-round. It's a recognition of the symbiotic relationship between land, wildlife, and the people who manage them.

Key Differences from General Public Draws

The primary distinction between the landowner preference system and the general public draw lies in the odds of success. For most highly sought-after tags, the general public draw can be incredibly competitive, often requiring years of accumulating preference points to have a realistic chance. Landowners, however, enter a separate allocation or a weighted drawing where their applications are given higher priority. For instance, in some deer units, a certain percentage of tags might be set aside specifically for landowner applications, or landowner applicants might receive multiple "chances" in the draw for each application they submit. This doesn't mean it's a walk in the park; demand can still outstrip supply, especially for trophy units or specific seasons. However, your chances are undeniably better. The application process itself might also have subtle differences, often requiring additional documentation to prove eligibility, which we'll delve into shortly. Understanding these subtle but significant differences is key to successfully navigating the system.

Who Qualifies for Landowner Preference in South Dakota?

The term "landowner" can sometimes feel broad, but in South Dakota, the criteria for landowner preference are quite specific. It's not just about owning a few acres; there are clear definitions and requirements that must be met to ensure the system serves its intended purpose. Getting this wrong can lead to a rejected application, which is a frustrating experience when you've put in the effort.

Owner-Operator Definition and Requirements

To qualify for most landowner preference tags in South Dakota, you generally need to be an "owner-operator." This definition is crucial. An owner-operator is typically defined as a resident individual who owns at least 160 acres of land within South Dakota and who actively farms or ranches that land. The "active" part is important; it means you're involved in the day-to-day agricultural operations, residing on the property, or deriving a significant portion of your livelihood from it. Simply owning undeveloped land for investment purposes, even if it's excellent habitat, usually doesn't cut it. There are specific acreage requirements, often 160 acres or more, for many big game units. Your primary residence must also be in South Dakota, and you must hold a valid South Dakota hunting license. These rules are in place to ensure that the preference goes to those genuinely engaged in land management within the state. For example, a farmer near Pierre who works their fields daily and lives on the property would typically qualify, whereas someone who owns a small recreational parcel near the Black Hills and lives out of state would not.

Family Members and Related Parties

The landowner preference system often extends beyond just the primary owner-operator to include immediate family members. This is a huge benefit for families looking to hunt together on their own ground. Typically, this can include a spouse, children (often requiring them to be under a certain age, like 18 or 21, or full-time students), and sometimes grandchildren. The exact definition of "immediate family" can vary slightly between species and specific draw types, so always double-check the current year's hunting handbook. These family members would also typically need to be South Dakota residents and meet any other general licensing requirements. This provision allows for a more holistic approach to hunting within a family unit, strengthening the connection between the land, the family, and the tradition of hunting. It's worth noting that the land itself usually has to meet the same minimum acreage and owner-operator requirements for family members to be eligible. If you're planning a multi-generational hunt, understanding these specific family rules is essential.

Common Misconceptions About Eligibility

There are several common misconceptions that often trip up aspiring landowner applicants. One of the biggest is believing that owning any amount of land automatically grants you preference. As discussed, the 160-acre minimum for owner-operators is a frequent requirement. Another common misunderstanding is that non-resident landowners are eligible for these preference tags. With very few exceptions (like specific instances where non-resident landowners might participate in certain controlled access programs, but rarely for big game draw preference), these tags are strictly for resident owner-operators and their qualifying family members. Some also mistakenly believe that if they lease their land to a farmer, they still qualify. Unless you meet the "owner-operator" definition by actively managing the land yourself, simply being the landlord is usually not enough. Furthermore, the land must be within the hunt unit for which you are applying. You can't own land in one unit and use that to apply for landowner preference in a completely different unit. Always verify your specific situation against the latest South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) regulations to avoid disappointment.

Navigating the Application Process for Landowner Tags

The application process for landowner tags in South Dakota isn't overly complicated, but it does require attention to detail. Missing a deadline or failing to provide the correct documentation can mean missing out on a valuable hunting opportunity, a mistake no one wants to make. Proper preparation is key to ensuring your application goes smoothly.

Application Deadlines and Specific Forms

Just like any other hunting license application in South Dakota, landowner preference applications are subject to strict deadlines. These deadlines vary depending on the game species and specific hunting season. For instance, deer and antelope applications typically have early summer deadlines, often in June or July, while elk applications might be even earlier. It's crucial to consult the current year's South Dakota Hunting Handbook or the GFP website for the precise dates. Don't rely on last year's dates, as they can shift.

When applying, you'll generally use the same online application portal as the general public, but you'll need to select the "landowner preference" option where applicable. There might also be specific supplemental forms or sections within the application that require additional information unique to landowner status. For example, some units or species might have dedicated landowner draw applications that are separate from the general draw. Always ensure you are selecting the correct application type and submitting it before the cutoff. Setting calendar reminders well in advance is a smart move, especially for those highly anticipated draws for species like deer or antelope. Missing the South Dakota Deer Application Deadline can mean waiting another year.

Required Documentation and Proof of Ownership

Proving you're a legitimate owner-operator is a non-negotiable part of the process. When you select the landowner preference option, the South Dakota GFP will require documentation to verify your eligibility. This typically includes:

• Proof of Property Ownership: This usually means submitting a copy of your deed or a current tax statement clearly showing your name and the legal description of the land. The property must meet the minimum acreage requirements for the specific unit and species you're applying for.
• Affidavit of Owner-Operator Status: You may need to sign an affidavit attesting that you actively farm or ranch the land and meet the definition of an owner-operator. This is where your personal involvement in the agricultural operation comes into play.
• Proof of Residency: A valid South Dakota driver's license or state ID is usually sufficient.
• Family Member Verification: If applying for family members under your landowner status, you might need to provide birth certificates or other documents to prove kinship, as well as their residency.

Make sure all documentation is clear, current, and submitted in the format requested by GFP, whether it's uploading digital copies through the online portal or mailing physical copies if specified. Incomplete or incorrect documentation is a leading cause of rejected applications, so take the time to gather everything accurately.

Strategic Considerations for Applying

Applying for landowner tags isn't just about filling out a form; it can involve a bit of strategy. First, thoroughly review the unit boundaries. Your land must fall within the specific hunting unit you're applying for. If your property straddles two units, you'll need to decide which unit offers the best chance or aligns with your hunting goals. Understanding the specific South Dakota Deer Licence Types by Region can also help in making informed choices.

Second, consider the number of preference points you might have accumulated if you've applied in previous years for general tags. While landowner preference provides a significant advantage, some draws might still factor in preference points or a bonus point system, although less directly than the general public draw. It’s always smart to use tools like GoHunt or other reputable resources to research draw odds specific to landowner applications in various units. These platforms can provide historical data that helps you gauge the competitiveness of a particular unit, even with landowner status. They often break down "landowner draw odds" separately, giving you a clearer picture of your chances. This can help you decide between applying for a harder-to-draw trophy unit or a more accessible unit closer to home.

Finally, always have a backup plan. Even with landowner preference, success is not 100% guaranteed, especially for highly desired units or species. Be aware of any leftover tag sales or alternative seasons, such as muzzleloader or archery, that might offer additional opportunities if your primary application is unsuccessful.

Specific Game Species and Landowner Tags

South Dakota’s landowner preference system extends to several big game species, each with its own specific rules and nuances. What applies to deer might not be the same for antelope or elk, so it’s essential to understand the distinctions for each. This tailored approach allows the state to manage populations effectively while still rewarding land stewardship.

Deer Hunting: West River, East River, and Black Hills

Deer hunting in South Dakota is broadly categorized into West River, East River, and Black Hills regions, each with unique habitat and population dynamics. For landowners, preference for deer tags is a significant advantage.

• West River Deer: This vast region, west of the Missouri River, is primarily known for its mule deer, though whitetails are also present, especially along river bottoms. Landowner preference here can be particularly valuable, as many units can be difficult to draw for the general public. Resident owner-operators meeting the criteria can often apply for either-sex or buck-only tags with much better odds. For instance, a rancher in Harding County might have a significantly higher chance of drawing a coveted mule deer tag for their unit than a non-landowner. The specifics, such as how many "cubes" or weighted chances your application receives, are detailed in the annual hunting proclamation. These tags are often highly sought after, and the preference system helps ensure that local stewards have a good chance to hunt the animals they help sustain. Understanding How Many Points to Draw West River Deer is often a major challenge for general applicants, but landowners face a different, more favorable equation.
• East River Deer: East of the Missouri, the landscape changes to more agricultural fields, river corridors, and pheasant cover. Whitetail deer are the predominant species here. While some East River units are less difficult to draw than their West River counterparts, landowner preference still provides a clear edge. Many of these units have a high number of deer, and landowner tags can ensure that those managing properties, whether for corn, soybeans, or hay, have access to harvest deer that might impact their operations. The specific allocation of landowner tags or weighting in the draw can vary by unit, so checking the GFP regulations for your specific East River unit is vital.
• Black Hills Deer: The Black Hills region is a unique ecosystem, offering hunting opportunities for both whitetail and mule deer within its forested slopes. While Black Hills tags are generally harder to draw for everyone, landowner preference still applies in many areas. For those who own and actively manage property within the Black Hills National Forest or surrounding private lands, this preference can be crucial. These tags are highly valued for the opportunity to hunt in such a scenic and distinct environment. The structure for these tags often includes a certain percentage set aside for landowners or a specific weighting in the draw.

Antelope Landowner Licences

Pronghorn antelope, often simply called antelope, are iconic residents of the open South Dakota prairie, particularly west of the Missouri River. The antelope draw is famously competitive for the general public, often requiring a significant number of preference points to secure a tag. This is where landowner preference truly shines.

Landowners with eligible property in designated antelope units can apply for special landowner antelope licenses. These licenses are generally allocated with a significant preference, dramatically increasing the odds of success for resident owner-operators and their qualifying family members. It's not uncommon for landowners in prime antelope country to draw a tag far more consistently than the general applicant pool. This system acknowledges that antelope are free-ranging animals that require vast tracts of land, much of which is privately owned. By providing preference, the state recognizes the landowner's role in providing the habitat and often maintaining fences that accommodate these unique animals. Just like with deer, the exact details of the preference, such as the number of units available or the specific weighting, will be outlined in the annual GFP Hunting Handbook. For those considering Spot-and-Stalk Antelope Hunting in South Dakota on their own land, securing a landowner tag is the first step.

Elk and Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunities

Elk hunting in South Dakota, particularly in the Black Hills, is a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many. These tags are exceptionally rare and highly coveted, making the draw incredibly difficult for general applicants.

For resident landowners with property within the designated Black Hills elk units, or in the rare prairie elk units, there can be a landowner preference. However, given the extreme scarcity of elk tags, this preference is still extremely competitive and does not guarantee a tag. It typically means receiving a bonus point or a slightly better chance in the draw, rather than a separate allocation of tags. The South Dakota Elk Draw and Units are managed very carefully, and even landowners often spend years accumulating points to draw.

South Dakota also offers a few other truly "once-in-a-lifetime" tags for species like bighorn sheep and mountain goats, which are exclusive to the Black Hills. While there isn't typically a specific "landowner preference" category for these once-in-a-lifetime tags in the same way there is for deer or antelope, landowners in the specific units where these animals reside may still accrue preference points or potentially have certain slight advantages through other means if their land directly contributes to the habitat of these rare species. However, these are highly specialized situations, and the odds remain astronomically low for everyone. It's best to consult the GFP directly for the most current rules surrounding these extremely rare opportunities, especially when navigating the nuances of Once-in-a-Lifetime Tags in South Dakota.

Advantages and Limitations of Landowner Preference

The South Dakota landowner preference system is a valuable asset for eligible individuals, but like any system, it comes with both clear advantages and certain limitations. Understanding both sides of the coin is crucial for managing expectations and planning your hunting seasons effectively.

Increased Odds and Tag Availability

The most significant advantage of landowner preference is the dramatically increased odds of drawing a tag for popular big game species like deer and antelope. For general applicants, drawing a quality West River deer tag or any antelope tag can take years of accumulating preference points and still boil down to luck. Landowners, on the other hand, often see a success rate that is multiple times higher for comparable units. This means more consistent hunting opportunities on the land they manage and invest in.

For example, if a general applicant might have a 5-10% chance of drawing a specific West River unit deer tag, an eligible landowner in that same unit might see their odds jump to 30-50%, or even higher in some cases due to dedicated tag allocations. This isn't just about drawing any tag; it often means drawing tags for specific, desirable seasons (e.g., rifle season) or for either-sex opportunities that are incredibly competitive for others. This enhanced availability empowers landowners to manage their local deer and antelope populations more directly and enjoy the fruits of their land stewardship. The system directly rewards their investment in habitat and agricultural practices that benefit wildlife.

Potential Drawbacks and Unit Specifics

While the advantages are clear, there are also some limitations and nuances to consider. One potential drawback is that the landowner preference only applies to the specific units where your qualifying land is located. If you own land in Unit A but want to hunt in Unit B, your landowner status won't help you with Unit B's draw. This can sometimes limit flexibility if your preferred hunting area isn't where your property lies.

Furthermore, even with preference, highly sought-after tags in prime trophy units can still be competitive. While your odds are better, they aren't guaranteed, and you might still face disappointment in particularly popular units or for highly limited species like elk. The system is designed to provide preference, not an automatic entitlement.

Another point to remember is that the "owner-operator" definition is strict. If your land use changes, or if you cease to meet the active farming/ranching criteria, you could lose your eligibility. It requires ongoing adherence to the state's definitions. Also, non-resident landowners are generally excluded from this preference, which can be a point of frustration for out-of-state individuals who own land in South Dakota but don't reside there.

Impact on Nonresident Hunters

The South Dakota landowner preference system, by its very nature, has an impact on nonresident hunters. Since a portion of tags or a weighting advantage is given to resident landowners, it effectively reduces the number of tags available or makes the draw even more competitive for nonresident applicants in those units. Nonresidents already face limited quotas for many big game species, such as South Dakota Nonresident Archery Deer Quota, and the landowner preference further tightens the pool.

This isn't to say nonresident hunting is impossible, but it underscores the challenge. Nonresidents often rely heavily on accumulating preference points over many years or focusing on units with slightly higher nonresident quotas or less competition. For some, the existence of landowner preference might push them towards considering guided hunts on private lands where an outfitter manages access and tags, or exploring public lands more thoroughly. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for nonresidents planning a hunt in South Dakota. While landowner preference is a boon for residents, it's an added hurdle for those coming from out of state, making meticulous planning and strategy, often utilizing resources like GoHunt, even more critical for nonresident success.

Ethical Considerations and Responsible Land Stewardship

The privilege of landowner preference in South Dakota comes with inherent responsibilities. It’s not just about securing a tag; it’s about acknowledging the role you play in the broader ecosystem and ensuring that your actions contribute positively to wildlife conservation and the hunting tradition.

The Responsibility That Comes With a Tag

Receiving a landowner tag is more than just a piece of paper; it’s a recognition of your commitment to the land and its wildlife. This privilege carries a responsibility to hunt ethically and in accordance with all state regulations. This means adhering to bag limits, shooting hours, and method-of-take restrictions. It also implies a deeper commitment to the health of the deer, antelope, or elk populations on and around your property. Hunters with landowner tags are often on the front lines of observing population trends, disease outbreaks, and habitat conditions. Reporting these observations to the South Dakota GFP can be invaluable for wildlife managers.

Furthermore, a landowner tag should encourage responsible harvesting. For instance, if you're consistently seeing too many does on your property, using an antlerless tag (if available) can help manage the herd to healthier ratios. It's about being a steward, not just a harvester. This might even involve participating in South Dakota Harvest Reporting Rules diligently to contribute accurate data to state wildlife management efforts.

Maintaining Good Landowner-Wildlife Relationships

Landowners have a unique opportunity to directly influence the relationship between humans and wildlife. Good land stewardship means managing your property in a way that benefits game species. This can involve maintaining diverse habitat, planting wildlife-friendly crops or food plots, controlling invasive species, and ensuring water sources are available.

Beyond active management, it’s also about fostering positive relationships with neighboring landowners, particularly concerning wildlife movements. Animals don't respect property lines, and cooperative efforts, such as shared land management practices or communicating about hunting pressure, can benefit everyone and the wildlife itself. Respecting natural migratory paths and providing necessary cover are also key components of maintaining a healthy environment for the animals that call your property home.

Partnering with Landowners for Access

For non-landowners or those without landowner preference, gaining access to private land in South Dakota is a significant challenge. Landowner preference acknowledges the value of private ground, and one ethical consideration is how that private ground can contribute to broader hunting access. While not directly tied to the preference system, many landowners choose to open their property for other hunters, either through paid leases, guided hunts, or simply granting permission to friends and family.

This act of sharing, when done responsibly, helps foster positive relationships between hunters and landowners and ensures that more people can experience South Dakota's rich hunting heritage. If you're a landowner with excess hunting opportunities, considering programs like the Walk-In Area program or granting limited permission can be a great way to give back to the hunting community. For those seeking access, always approach landowners respectfully, with a clear plan, and be prepared to offer something in return, whether it's help with chores, monetary compensation, or simply a commitment to strict ethical conduct. Respect for posted land is paramount, as outlined in South Dakota Trespass Law and Posted Land.

Resources and Tools for South Dakota Landowners

Navigating the intricacies of landowner preference, drawing odds, and regulatory changes can be simplified with the right resources and tools. South Dakota offers a variety of official and third-party aids to help landowners stay informed and maximize their hunting opportunities.

South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Resources

The absolute first place any South Dakota landowner should look for information is the official South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) website and their annual hunting handbooks. These resources are the definitive source for all regulations, application deadlines, unit maps, and eligibility criteria for landowner preference.

• Hunting Handbooks: Each year, the GFP publishes detailed hunting handbooks for big game, small game, and waterfowl. These booklets meticulously outline application procedures, license types, season dates, bag limits, and specific rules for landowner preference in each unit. They are available for free online and often at local GFP offices or sporting goods stores. Always refer to the current year's handbook.
• GFP Website: The GFP website (gfp.sd.gov) is an invaluable online hub. It contains all the information found in the handbooks, often with interactive maps, online application portals, and news updates. You can find sections specifically dedicated to licensing, big game draw information, and landowner programs.
• Local GFP Offices: Don't hesitate to contact your local GFP office directly. The staff are typically knowledgeable and can answer specific questions about your property's eligibility or particular unit regulations. They can provide clarification on complex scenarios that might not be explicitly covered in general publications.

Third-Party Mapping and Draw Odds Tools

While GFP provides the foundational information, several excellent third-party tools can help landowners refine their application strategies and better understand their chances.

• GoHunt: This brand is a fantastic resource for serious hunters. GoHunt provides comprehensive draw odds data, including, crucially, specific landowner draw odds for many units and species in South Dakota. Their "Insider" membership offers detailed reports, filtering tools, and up-to-date information that can help you strategize which units to apply for. They synthesize historical draw data, application trends, and regulatory changes into an easily digestible format, helping you make informed decisions. Many landowners find their unit profiles and mapping layers extremely useful for understanding land ownership and unit boundaries.
• OnX Hunt: While not directly focused on draw odds, OnX Hunt is an indispensable mapping application for landowners. It clearly delineates property lines, public vs. private land, and even shows specific Walk-In Area (WIA) boundaries. This is critical for confirming your land's location within a specific hunting unit and understanding surrounding land ownership, which can be useful for managing game movement. The layers showing South Dakota Walk-In Areas Explained can help landowners see where neighboring public access points are located.
• Other Mapping Apps: Other mapping apps, like BaseMap or HuntStand, also offer similar features that can aid in land management, scouting, and ensuring you are applying for the correct unit based on your property's exact location.

These tools, when used in conjunction with official GFP resources, can give landowners a significant edge in understanding the system and making the best application choices.

Staying Informed on Regulatory Changes

Wildlife regulations and draw systems are not static; they evolve. The South Dakota GFP continually reviews season structures, tag allocations, and eligibility requirements based on population data, public input, and changing land-use patterns.

It is absolutely vital for landowners to stay informed about these potential changes annually. This means:

• Reviewing the Annual Proclamation: Don't just skim it. Read the details, especially sections pertaining to landowner applications.
• Subscribing to GFP Updates: Many state agencies offer email newsletters or alerts for important deadlines and regulatory changes.
• Following GFP on Social Media: They often post important updates and announcements on platforms like Facebook.
• Attending Public Meetings: Occasionally, GFP will hold public meetings or commission hearings regarding proposed changes to hunting seasons. While not always feasible, attending or reviewing the minutes can provide valuable insight into upcoming shifts.

For instance, understanding when South Dakota GFP Commission Season Proposals are announced and when public comments are open can allow you to weigh in on decisions that might directly impact your hunting opportunities and land management practices. Staying proactive ensures you're never caught off guard by a new rule or an adjusted deadline, helping you maintain your eligibility and maximize your hunting success year after year.

South Dakota Landowner Preference Comparison Table

To help clarify the differences, here's a comparison of applying for a West River Any Deer tag as a Resident Landowner versus a Resident General Public applicant in a hypothetical competitive unit.

Feature	Resident Landowner (Owner-Operator)	Resident General Public
Eligibility	Must own 160+ acres, actively farm/ranch in unit.	Must be a South Dakota resident.
Primary Advantage	Higher draw odds, often a separate tag quota or weighting.	Accumulates preference points over years.
Draw Odds (Example)	30-50% for a specific unit (varies greatly).	5-10% for a specific unit (can be less without points).
Application Specifics	Select "Landowner Preference," provide proof of ownership.	Select "General Public," may use preference points.
Required Docs	Deed, tax statement, owner-operator affidavit.	Valid SD driver's license/ID.
Target Tags	Often for Any-Deer or Any-Whitetail tags on own land.	Often apply for Any-Deer or antlerless tags.
Wait Time for Success	Potentially draw every few years, or more frequently.	Can be many years for desirable units.
Impact on Others	Reduces tags available in general draw.	Competes directly with all other general applicants.
Information Source	SD GFP Handbook, GoHunt, county tax records.	SD GFP Handbook, GoHunt.

This table illustrates that while both resident groups can pursue big game, the path to obtaining a license is distinct, with landowner status providing a considerable edge in the draw.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this guide is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. South Dakota hunting regulations, application processes, and landowner eligibility criteria are subject to change by the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Department. Hunters and landowners are solely responsible for verifying all current regulations, deadlines, and requirements directly with the official South Dakota GFP website or publications before applying for any licenses or engaging in hunting activities. Reliance on any information in this guide is at your own risk.