Now, locals have found ways to utilize the water hyacinth, and the once evasive species is now a major export of the region. 10 years ago, locals here had to spray herbicides to kill the dominant water hyacinths so that boats could pass. Nowadays, they actively cultivate the plant. Hyacinths provide jobs for thousands of locals, and women and children use the dried plants for weaving.
Nguyen Thi Hong, living in Thuan Hoa Commune, Long My District, Hau Giang Province, said: "We can earn around 3.5 USD each day by cutting water hyacinths. Now, many households here grow this type of plant. Sometimes, one package can cost up to 100 USD".
Le Thi Dung, also living in Thuan Hoa Commune, Long My District, said: "Besides working in our fields, we grow water hyacinths in our free time. It's quite easy and brings us additional income".
The majority of workers in Hau Giang are members of the Kim Ngan Cooperative. There are about 300 households that provide materials, and 1,000 households involved in the weaving craft. The cooperative exports products made from water hyacinth to markets in Germany, Denmark, Japan, and China.
Mr. Ho Van Ut, Chairman of Kim Ngan Cooperative, Long My District, Hau Giang Province, said: "We hold 18 knitting classes each year for people in our commune. Our cooperative wants to extend its production. We have the market to do it, but we need capital to invest in facilities and factories".
Having been able to turn what was percieved to be a weed into a major export, locals in Hau Giang Province are an example of creativity and diligence.
