NORFOLK, Neb. -- Skyview Lake is celebrating a major milestone. 

“So it's actually been 20 years now, and it's been a success story,” said Jeff Schuckman, District Supervisor.

What were murky conditions back in 2004, are now healthy and habitable wetlands for many forms of wildlife and fish. Nebraska Game and Parks District Supervisor Jeff Schuckman reflects on all the progress.

“It's been pretty rewarding,” said Schuckman. “It’s been a long journey, you know, Skyview Lake came into existence in the early 1970s.”

After the lake was built, houses began to form around the lake. This caused sediment to pile up in shallow waters, nearly ruining the lake.

“It worked out very well,” said Schuckman. “It took almost 55,000 cubic yards out of the lake deep in the west end.”

In 2004, with the help of funding from the city of Norfolk and the LENRD, Skyview Lake dug out their west end to help keep the lake alive. The costs surrounded $400,000.

“It's really gratifying to see that it's remained good,” said Schuckman. “The water quality has remained good.”

“It's just a great place for people to go here in town,” said Phil Chvala, Fishery Biologist, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. “This is a great resource for the people in Norfolk and the surrounding area.”

Now, the lake is home to over a dozen different species of fish. Those include largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill and others. 

“We're sitting somewhere around 45 pounds per acre,” said Schuckman. “That's about what this lake produces.” 

News Channel Nebraska was able to take a look. Through a thorough fish-shocking technique, tons of different fish were on display. 

“Managing a fishery takes some work,” said Chvala. “There are sacrifices one way or the other at times, but we try to create an opportunity that everyone can enjoy.”