In a remarkable twist of fate, Josef Buttigieg transitioned from a university professor to a hands-on farmer in Lumsden, Saskatchewan. What began as a temporary escape from his bustling life in Toronto has blossomed into a thriving agritourism venture, drawing hundreds of visitors each week. His story exemplifies how life’s unexpected turns can lead to fulfilling new paths.
A New Chapter in Saskatchewan
Buttigieg’s journey to farming commenced in 2017 when he relocated to Saskatchewan to take on a teaching position at the University of Regina. Originally seeking a brief respite from urban life, he and his family settled in Lumsden with the intent to invest in a piece of land. “The farm was supposed to be an acreage,” Buttigieg shares. “I wanted to have a farm because you can do much more with a farm than you can do with a lakeside acreage.”
Initially, Buttigieg’s foray into agriculture was modest, involving a few animals that aligned with his vision for a slower-paced lifestyle. With a PhD in neurophysiology from McMaster University, he was accustomed to the rigours of academia, but the farm offered him a refreshing change of scenery and pace.
An Unforeseen Demand for Farm Tours
What started as a simple family project quickly evolved as word spread about Buttigieg’s farm. Encouraged by friends and neighbours, he began to welcome visitors for tours, initially designed for his daughter’s companions. “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, much to his surprise, the interest in farm tours surged, leading to a steady stream of visitors eager to experience rural life.
“But all of a sudden we had people banging down the door for that,” Buttigieg states, reflecting on how the tours unexpectedly became a significant part of his farm’s identity. Today, his farm hosts hundreds of guests each week, showcasing over 300 animals including sheep, rabbits, and alpacas, alongside various activities and events.
Commitment to Accessibility and Community Engagement
Central to Buttigieg’s mission is a commitment to making the farm accessible and affordable for all. He consciously prices goods and activities ethically, ensuring that experiences—such as the popular hayrides—are wheelchair-friendly. “Raising my children on the farm is far from what I had grown up on, but I hope they develop an open, hard-working mindset as they grow,” he explains.
Buttigieg encourages potential visitors to approach the farm with an open mind, as each visit offers unique experiences. “You never know what you’re going to find when you come out to the farm. You might see a baby being born, or sheep running loose while dogs are being worked.”
A Growing Agritourism Hub
The success of Buttigieg’s farm has transformed it into a notable agritourism destination in the region. His website details a variety of offerings, from petting zoos to seasonal events, illustrating the farm’s role as a community hub. As the farm continues to thrive, Buttigieg remains committed to fostering a connection between visitors and the agricultural landscape.
Why it Matters
Buttigieg’s journey from professor to farmer highlights an essential narrative about the power of adaptability and community. In a world increasingly disconnected from its agricultural roots, stories like his serve as a reminder of the importance of local farming, environmental stewardship, and the rich experiences that rural life can offer. His farm not only provides a livelihood but also serves as an educational platform, bridging the gap between urban and rural lifestyles, and fostering a deeper appreciation for the land that sustains us all.
