BUFFALO, N.Y. — Over the past 50 years, the world has seen a sizeable decline in insect populations.

Local organizations are now looking to the next generation to help in stopping this downward trend.

On Saturday, the Land Conservancy and the Riverline joined together to host Insectageddon-Buffalo, a one-day special event celebrating insects and raising awareness about the critical role they play on our planet.

Families and kids were encouraged to gather at Father Conway Park to participate in activities, like artmaking, youth poetry and live insect demonstrations, as well as a butterfly release hosted by Eastern Monarch Butterfly Farm.