The article highlights the impact of droughts on almond production in the western US, particularly in areas currently experiencing extreme or exceptional drought. Despite a record tonnage produced in 2020, the 2021 crop is forecasted to produce 2.8 billion pounds (1.27 million tons) due to drought effects. It emphasizes the need for fungicide management and bee protection in August, and recommends avoiding irrigation in August to support the spring rootlet flash. It also mentions the severity of the 13-year drought in California and the efforts of the Australian almond industry to manage bees and distribute multiplication material.