What action did Congress take in 1902 concerning water hyacinths?

The action taken by Congress in 1902 to authorize the extermination of water hyacinths was driven by the need to address the invasive nature of the plant and its impact on waterways. Water hyacinths can grow rapidly, creating dense mats on the surface of water bodies, which can inhibit navigation, block sunlight, and deplete oxygen levels, leading to detrimental effects on aquatic ecosystems. This legislation recognized the urgency and necessity of controlling this invasive species through various means, including mechanical removal and chemical treatment, to restore balance to affected waterways and maintain their usability.

In this context, the other options do not align with the specific focus of Congress's efforts in that year. For instance, collecting water samples, providing funding for education, or creating penalties for disposal do not directly address the immediate problem posed by water hyacinths. Instead, the emphasis in 1902 was firmly on active extermination measures to manage the aggressive spread of this plant and mitigate its negative consequences on the environment.