importation discussion and PBS
Adam Fikso (Thu, 29 Jan 2009 12:23:35 PST)

Re Kudzu. Not quite. As I read available Internet references... its use
as a control for erosion, does not seem to have actually occurred until much
later in the 30s and subsequently. It's first introduction in 1876 was as
an ornamental and forage crop. That it has a use in Chinese medicine tends
to be largely overlooked.

Your reference and others conflate the two uses and dates. Yes the USDA was
complicit in its spread, but, at th time, it was a reasonable solution.
Getting rid of it is possible, and methods are specified on line.