A group of Canby 4th graders released 250,000 ladybugs into the wild Tuesday, as part of their school’s ongoing Earth Day celebrations.

Always be kind to the lady beetle.

The ladybugs were released at area Christmas tree farms to teach the children about environmentally friendly farming methods in Oregon.

Organizers said the event was designed to engage local school children in the significance of eco-friendly farming. Ladybugs are a natural alternative to chemical pesticides.

The children were from Boones Ferry Primary School and Yule Tree Farms also participated in the event, which began at 11 a.m.

The Coalition of Environmentally Conscious Growers, a partnership of farmers, helped organize the event.