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This study develops a method of estimating wind machine effectiveness. The method captures the important variables affecting cost-effectiveness and can be applied at little cost. The present-value method outlined may be applied when evaluating frost protection for other crops and other risk-reducing inputs, such as irrigation equipment. Oranges in California are presented as a case study. The empirical results presented indicate that wind machines are generally not cost-effective for California orange producers. However, when the nonfinancial benefits of yield risk reduction are included, it is possible that wind machines are cost-effective for some growers.