Which of the following is the primary goal of the Safe Harbor Agreements (SHAs) under the ESA?

The primary goal of Safe Harbor Agreements (SHAs) under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) is indeed to prevent economic restrictions on landowners. These agreements provide landowners with certainty by allowing them to engage in activities that may benefit endangered species without fear of being subjected to additional regulatory restrictions. Essentially, SHAs are designed to encourage voluntary conservation efforts by landowners, allowing them to develop their land while still contributing to the recovery of endangered species. This incentivizes participation in conservation programs, as participants know that their current land use won't be limited unexpectedly if their actions inadvertently attract endangered species to their property.

While the other options, such as enhancing habitats or restoring ecosystems, are important aspects of conservation efforts, the main focus of SHAs is to foster a cooperative relationship between landowners and conservation goals, without imposing additional burdens or economic constraints. This balance helps to promote both species recovery and sustainable land use.