Lake of the Ozarks Daily Digest — Friday, March 13, 2026
Ty's Take
That Highway 54 crash and the 500-acre fire near the lake should have every resident's attention—when you combine serious accidents with bone-dry conditions and high winds, it's a recipe for more trouble ahead. The invasive pear tree program is actually worth noting too, because those Bradford pears might look pretty in spring, but they're choking out native species that our wildlife depends on, and getting a free replacement tree is a no-brainer deal. With drought conditions finally improving according to state reports, maybe we can catch a break on the fire danger, but until we get consistent moisture, everyone needs to stay alert about burn bans and emergency vehicle access on our winding lake roads.
Lake Expo
Have Invasive Pear Trees? Cut Them Down & Get A Free Native Tree!
Area residents can receive a free native tree by cutting down invasive pear trees on their property. The program aims to replace non-native species with trees better suited to the Lake of the Ozarks environment.
WATCH: This Supply Shop at Lake of the Ozarks Is WAY Bigger Than It Looks
A local supply shop at Lake of the Ozarks features a surprisingly large interior space despite its modest exterior appearance. The business offers extensive inventory and services beyond what visitors might expect from the outside.
Where Do The Lake’s Contractors Stock Up? At Lake WinSupply In Camdenton
Lake WinSupply in Camdenton serves as a primary resource center for contractors working in the Lake of the Ozarks area. The facility stocks construction materials and supplies needed for local building projects.
Parade, Pub Crawl & Lake Cruise: Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day At Lake Of The Ozarks This Weekend
Lake of the Ozarks will host multiple St. Patrick's Day celebrations this weekend including a parade, pub crawl, and lake cruise. The festivities offer visitors and residents various ways to celebrate the holiday around the lake area.
Airborne, Rollover Crash Seriously Injures Two On Hwy 54
Two people suffered serious injuries in a rollover crash on Highway 54 after their vehicle became airborne. Emergency responders transported both victims to area hospitals following the accident.
Almost 500 Acres Burn Amid Windy & Dry Conditions Near The Lake
Nearly 500 acres burned in a wildfire near Lake of the Ozarks amid windy and dry weather conditions. Fire crews worked to contain the blaze as drought-like conditions increased fire risk across the region.
Lake News Online
Local author publishes first children’s book
A local author from the Lake of the Ozarks area has published their first children's book. The new publication marks a literary milestone for the community writer.
Day Trippin' the home of Missouri’s finest milk
A day trip destination in Missouri is being highlighted for producing some of the state's highest quality milk. The location offers visitors a chance to learn about dairy operations and sample premium milk products.
Lake Parke celebrates 10 years with residents, families and staff
Lake Parke celebrated its 10th anniversary with a special event bringing together residents, families, and staff members. The milestone celebration recognized a decade of service to the Lake of the Ozarks community.
Two Rescued Teens Fight Sexual Grooming of Children at the Missouri State Capitol
Two teenagers who were rescued from trafficking situations testified at the Missouri State Capitol about combating child sexual grooming. The young advocates spoke to lawmakers about protecting children from predators.
KRMS Radio
A milestone has been announced in the fight to get people to stop smoking
A new national survey published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows cigarette smoking rates continue to decline across the United States. The findings represent significant progress in public health efforts to reduce tobacco use nationwide.
Drought Conditions Continue To Improve Across Missouri
Drought conditions have significantly improved across Missouri, with most of the state now drought-free according to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor report. The Lake of the Ozarks area, including Camden and Miller counties, is benefiting from the improved moisture conditions.
Gas Prices Continue To Rise Despite Reserve Releases
Gasoline and diesel prices continue climbing despite government releases from strategic reserves as tensions with Iran escalate. Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on fuel tankers are driving up costs at local pumps.
MO Auditor’s Office Plans To Release Miller County Audit Files Soon
Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick's office plans to release audit findings for Miller County soon as part of efforts to increase government transparency. The audit aims to improve efficiency and accountability in county operations.
Autopsy Planned For Inmate Who Died Thursday In Fulton
An autopsy has been scheduled for 36-year-old Dylan Tomlin, who died Thursday morning at the Callaway County Prison in Fulton. The Missouri Department of Corrections is investigating the circumstances surrounding the inmate's death.
Heroes Outreach Program Continues To Seek Those In Need Around The Lake Region
The Heroes Outreach Program continues seeking military veterans and first responders in the Lake of the Ozarks region who need assistance with daily challenges. The organization provides support services to help local heroes facing difficulties.
Mexico, MO, Man Sentenced on Production of Child Porn Charge
Former Mexico, Missouri resident Emrah Eymez, 40, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison followed by lifetime supervised release for child pornography production charges. The sentence was handed down Wednesday in federal court.
Gov. Kehoe Signs FY 2026 Supplemental Budget
Governor Mike Kehoe signed the Fiscal Year 2026 supplemental budget bill (HB 2014) on March 11, 2026, in Jefferson City. The legislation addresses additional state funding needs for the current fiscal year.
Two Seriously Hurt in Miller County Accident
Two people suffered serious injuries in a single-vehicle crash Wednesday afternoon on eastbound Highway 54 at Route AA in Miller County. A 28-year-old woman was driving the vehicle when the accident occurred, sending both occupants to the hospital.
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