What regulatory change occurred for landowners regarding sage grouse habitats?

The correct choice highlights that regulations affecting landowners in sage grouse habitats have been lessened, alleviating some of the burdens they faced previously. This shift is significant as it promotes the conservation of sage grouse habitats while recognizing the need for economic viability in farming and ranching activities.

By lifting regulatory burdens, landowners are often empowered to engage in responsible land use practices without the fear of stringent compliance measures that could hinder their operations. This also encourages more participation in conservation efforts, as landowners may feel more inclined to contribute to habitat conservation initiatives when regulations are simplified.

In contrast, increased regulatory control and persistent regulatory burdens would likely discourage landowners from actively managing their land for conservation purposes. Changes in land use policy may affect various stakeholders, but the emphasis in this case is on directly reducing the regulatory constraints on landowners, thus promoting a cooperative approach to habitat management.