The Clarke County Reservoir Commission (CCRC) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) have developed a draft plan for the Clarke County water supply project. As part of developing this plan, the CCRC and NRCS are seeking comments from the public. A copy of the Draft Watershed Plan (Draft Plan) and Environmental Impact Statement is available here, [will open new window]. Comments will be accepted through December 22.

Draft Plan Comments

Complete the comment form or reach out to the project team to provide comments:

Scott Cagle, Assistant State Conservationist for Partnerships
Natural Resources Conservation Service
210 Walnut Street, Suite 693
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
515-323-2211

Comments on the Draft Watershed Plan will be accepted through Monday, December 22, 2025.
{click below to go to the comments section}

Background On the Clarke County Water Supply Project

The purpose of the proposed plan is to provide a reliable water supply to meet existing and anticipated water needs for agricultural producers served by Osceola Water Works (OWW) and Southern Iowa Rural Water Association (SIRWA). The project is needed due to agricultural and other water supply deficiencies. In identifying a new water supply for agricultural uses, there is also an opportunity to supply additional water for users in the city of Osceola.

Water supply for agricultural use is at risk, and water use restrictions have limited agricultural livestock operations over the past several decades in Clarke and Decatur Counties. The City of Osceola has also faced water shortages, impacting quality of life and economic growth.

Review the project handout for more information.