Osceola is looking at pumping water from a nearby quarry to boost dwindling levels in drought-depleted West Lake — its primary source of drinking water. Osceola Water Superintendent Brandon Patterson said Tuesday the southern Iowa city of 5,600 could potentially tap 70 million gallons of water from the 9-acre, 50-foot-deep, spring-fed quarry north of town. The proposal could help the city address an immediate water shortfall, providing it enough supply to meet 90 days of peak usage this summer, Patterson said. Despite recent rains, two-thirds of Clarke County is gripped in severe drought, with the remainder experiencing moderate drought. West Lake is 7 feet below normal levels, and the city has ordered residents to reduce water use or face penalties. Tap the link in our bio for more on this story. #Osceola #Iowa #drought