Sometimes the LEGAL farm field workers would have fun by scattering like chickens when the planes flew over. And when the INS vans (notified by the plane) would roll in to round them up, the workers would then come out of hiding laughing like crazy.
Along about that time a law (State?) was enacted that said any vehicle found transporting illegals would be immediately confiscated and not returned. It was very effective in the farming/ranching community because nobody wanted to lose their pickup.
In a very short time the flood slowed to a complete stop and it's been years since we've seen planes, border patrol vans or illegals walking the back roads. The vegetable and cotton farmers have become mechanized and I don't know any farmer/rancher who employs them anymore.
The illegal population has changed over the years too. Now they head directly to the big cities to work in construction, restaurants, etc. The work is easier and the pay is probably better. Also, I think there's a darker element now. More dangerous with the drug and people smugglers.
I agree a much more sinister change has taken place. I know the problem is complex but come on US Government goodies must be stopped completely. We are the welfare country for dirt poor mexicans...and the leaders of Mexico are proud of that. Enough already!!!!!!!