Illinois Kudzu Eradication Program
Kudzu (Pueraria lobata) was introduced into the United States from Japan in 1876. Though promoted and planted in the 1930s to control soil erosion, kudzu has grown out of control, smothering, suppressing and killing other plants beneath its thick mass of leaves and vines, interfering with natural ecosystem function.
The following links provide information and news on the current project to eliminate kudzu from southern Illinois.
Kudzu Alert! (pdf)
Status of Kudzu in Illinois: Building a Framework for Eradication
Action plan for eradication of kudzu (pdf)
Progressive photos of kudzu eradication (pdf)