President Obama visited Fresno today to discuss the severe drought situation. During his visit, the president visited Firebaugh and Los Banos to look at areas most impacted by the drought.

“Today we’re here to talk about the resource that’s keeping more and more California farmers and families up at night-and that’s water or the lack of it,” Obama said.

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack also stated that the reason for the visit today was an immediate response to the need felt in the Valley. The long-term issues will be dealt with after the relief to farmers is distributed.

The Central Valley impacts the country as a whole as it serves as the nation’s breadbasket.

“California is our biggest economy,” Obama said. “California is our biggest agricultural producer. What happens here matters to every working American right down to the cost of the food that you put on your table.”

During his visit to the Valley, the president stressed the need for immediate action rather than waiting for the standard policies to take effect.

“We’re going to have to figure out how to play a different game. We can’t afford years of litigation and no real action,” Obama said.

While Sens. Boxer and Feinstein’s bill, along with federal assistance, will combat the severity of the drought, Obama acknowledged the efforts that Californians have made to help themselves.

“Californians have all had to come together and already make sacrifices, big and small, to help your neighbors and your state get through this,” Obama said. “The good news is California is always on the cutting-edge.  Already you use water far more efficiently than you did decades ago.  You do it smarter.”