In a remarkable turn of events, Josef Buttigieg, a biology professor at the University of Regina, has transformed a simple desire for a temporary escape from urban life into a thriving farm operation in Lumsden, Saskatchewan. What began in 2017 as a fleeting venture has blossomed into a popular local attraction, inviting families and individuals alike to experience farm life firsthand.
A New Chapter in Saskatchewan
Originally hailing from Toronto, Buttigieg relocated to Saskatchewan to embark on his academic career. The allure of the quiet countryside was appealing, and he envisioned owning a small farm, much like others would consider a cottage. “The farm was supposed to be an acreage,” he reflects. “I wanted to have a farm because you can do much more with a farm than you can do with a lakeside acreage.”
What started as a modest ambition gradually evolved. With a PhD in neurophysiology from McMaster University, Buttigieg was eager to embrace the slower pace of life. The initial plan was to house a few animals, but as word spread about his farm, the operation began to take on a life of its own.
Growing Interest in Farm Tours
In 2018, just a year after acquiring the property, Buttigieg decided to open his farm for tours, initially welcoming his daughter’s friends. “I thought, ‘We’ll just do this for fun. Some gas money-slash-beer money on the side, this will be great,’” he recalls. However, the response was overwhelming. What was intended as a small, informal gathering quickly transformed into a sought-after experience, with more visitors expressing interest in exploring the farm.
Buttigieg admits to being surprised by the enthusiasm. “All of a sudden, we had people banging down the door for that,” he says, highlighting the unexpected success of the tours. Today, the farm welcomes hundreds of visitors each week, showcasing over 300 animals, including sheep, birds, rabbits, alpacas, and dogs.
A Commitment to Accessibility and Community
Fenek Farm has grown beyond mere tours; it now offers a variety of activities, such as hayrides, a petting zoo, and special events. Buttigieg is particularly proud of his commitment to accessibility. He has ensured that all activities, including hayrides, are wheelchair-friendly and that prices for goods and services remain affordable.
Raising his children in this environment has been a departure from his own upbringing, yet he is optimistic about the values they are learning. “I hope my children sustain an open, hard-working mind as they grow on the farm,” he shares. The farm, he believes, is not just a place for animals; it is a space for personal growth and community engagement.
The Unpredictable Nature of Farm Life
Buttigieg encourages visitors to approach their farm experience with an open mind. “You never know what you’re going to find when you come out to the farm,” he remarks. “You might see a baby being born, there might be a swarm running, or you might see sheep running loose and dogs being worked.” This unpredictability is part of the charm of farm life, offering guests a genuine connection to nature and agriculture.
More information about Fenek Farm, its offerings, and visiting details can be found on their official website.
Why it Matters
Buttigieg’s journey from urban professor to rural farmer underscores a growing trend of individuals seeking deeper connections with nature and community. As more people gravitate towards sustainable living and local food systems, initiatives like Fenek Farm play a vital role in educating the public about agriculture and promoting environmental stewardship. By making farm life accessible and engaging, Buttigieg not only enriches his own family’s life but also fosters a broader understanding of the importance of farming in our society.