The Lake of the Ozarks area has seen big changes since Bagnell Dam and the Osage Power Plant began operating in 1931. From a quiet, rustic place where people would come mainly to camp and fish, the lake has grown into one of the nation’s premier vacation, convention, entertainment and retirement destinations.
Thousands of workers braved the hardships of the Great Depression, using tools that are archaic by today’s standards, to complete the project in only 2 years. But the story didn’t end with construction. Over the years, people with the vision to see the lake’s potential invested in resorts and entertainment complexes, shopping centers, health care facilities, housing complexes, and other businesses to provide products and services to residents and visitors alike.
With rapid growth and development, problems are inevitable. But the lake has been fortunate to have lots of people willing to volunteer their time, helping with lake cleanups, serving on boards, commissions and task forces, and participating in other activities to preserve and protect the lake and its natural resources.
Over the years, AmerenUE has also been fortunate to have outstanding employees dedicated to operating the dam and power plant in a safe and reliable manner, while working to enhance fish and wildlife habitat around the lake and in the Osage River downstream.
In 2006, AmerenUE joined with local communities to hold numerous events to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the massive project that created Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks. AmerenUE wishes to thank everyone who has played a role in making this unique area an outstanding place to live, work and play!
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