The Chesapeake Environmental Improvement Council (CEIC) recently announced the 2011 Notable Yards winners. The CEIC, a volunteer group, received over 25 nominations from Chesapeake's seven school districts. A panel of judges, co-chaired by Jean Pfaehler and Phil Johnson, the CEIC mayoral appointees, visited each yard to evaluate the aesthetics and gardening practices. The panel focused its attention on conservation, recycling, economic use of water, avoiding the use of chemicals and pesticides, and appealing outdoor designs and accessories.