In a remarkable turn of events, Josef Buttigieg, a biology professor at the University of Regina, has transformed his unexpected venture into farming into a thriving enterprise. Originally seeking a temporary retreat from the bustling life of Toronto, Buttigieg and his family found themselves embracing rural life in Lumsden, Saskatchewan, where they have cultivated a unique blend of education, community engagement, and sustainable farming.
A New Beginning in Saskatchewan
In 2017, Buttigieg arrived in Saskatchewan to teach, bringing with him a desire for a slower pace away from urban chaos. What initially began as a quest for a peaceful getaway rapidly morphed into something much larger. “The farm was supposed to be an acreage,” he explains, highlighting his vision of having a space that could serve more purposes than a typical cottage. “You can do much more with a farm than you can do with a lakeside acreage.”
His initial ambitions were modest, involving just a handful of animals. However, as he settled into this new life and began to share his experience with others, the concept of the farm evolved unpredictably.
Turning Passion into Opportunity
As word spread about his farming endeavours, requests began to pour in. “Some people got wind that I had a farm and said, ‘Hey, can you raise some chickens?’” Buttigieg recalls. This simple inquiry catalysed a series of developments that would see the farm flourish beyond his initial expectations.
In 2018, the farm opened its gates to the public, starting with casual tours for 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 reflects. What began as a small family initiative soon attracted a wider audience, with visitors eager to explore and learn.
Buttigieg’s instinct proved correct; the demand for farm tours was palpable. “All of a sudden we had people banging down the door for that,” he says, recognising the community’s enthusiasm for engaging with local agriculture.
A Thriving Community Hub
Fast forward to today, and Buttigieg’s farm has become a vibrant attraction, drawing hundreds each week. With over 300 animals, including sheep, birds, rabbits, and alpacas, Fenek Farm now offers a variety of experiences—ranging from guided tours to hayrides and special events. The farm’s website details all the activities available, making it an accessible destination for families and individuals alike.
Accessibility and affordability are at the heart of Buttigieg’s mission. He is dedicated to ensuring that everyone can enjoy the farm experience, intentionally pricing goods and activities in a way that allows for inclusivity. The hayrides, for instance, are designed to be wheelchair-friendly, reflecting his commitment to community involvement.
A New Generation on the Farm
Raising his children amidst the hustle and bustle of farm life is a departure from Buttigieg’s own upbringing. He hopes that this experience will instil in them a strong work ethic and an open-minded outlook as they navigate their formative years in this unique environment. “You never know what you’re going to find when you come out to the farm,” he says. “You might see a baby being born, there might be a swarm running, or you might see sheep running loose and dogs being worked,” inviting visitors to embrace the unpredictability of farm life.
By encouraging visitors to approach their experience with an open mind, Buttigieg fosters a deeper appreciation for the rhythms of nature and the joys of rural living, blending education with entertainment.
Why it Matters
Buttigieg’s journey from academia to agriculture exemplifies the potential for individuals to redefine their paths and embrace unexpected opportunities. As communities become increasingly disconnected from their agricultural roots, initiatives like Fenek Farm offer invaluable connections to nature, sustainability, and local culture. Through education and engagement, Buttigieg not only enhances public understanding of farming practices but also promotes environmental stewardship, making a significant impact on both local and broader communities in a time when such connections are more crucial than ever.
