In an inspiring tale of life’s unpredictability, Josef Buttigieg, a biology professor at the University of Regina, has embraced an unexpected path that has led him from academia to the heart of Saskatchewan’s agricultural landscape. Initially drawn to the province in 2017 for a teaching role, Buttigieg’s journey into farming has transformed both his life and that of his community.
A New Chapter in Saskatchewan
Originally hailing from Toronto, Buttigieg sought a reprieve from the urban hustle and bustle when he and his family arrived in Lumsden, Saskatchewan. He envisioned owning a farm as a more enriching alternative to a holiday cottage, allowing for a deeper connection to nature and a more hands-on lifestyle. “The farm was supposed to be an acreage,” Buttigieg recalls. “How some people have cottages, I wanted to have a farm because you can do much more with a farm than you can do with a lakeside acreage.”
What began as a modest venture with a few animals has since blossomed into a thriving enterprise. With a PhD in neurophysiology from McMaster University, Buttigieg found himself captivated by the slower pace of rural life, a stark contrast to his previous experiences in the city.
An Unplanned Success
Buttigieg’s foray into farming was not initially meant to be a permanent shift. However, as word spread about his new venture, local interest began to grow. “Some people got wind that I had a farm and said, ‘Hey can you raise some chickens?’” he explains. This seemingly casual query marked the beginning of a remarkable evolution for Buttigieg’s farm.
In 2018, just a year after acquiring the land, Buttigieg opened the farm to visitors, starting with 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 shares. To his surprise, the tours quickly gained traction, leading to a steady stream of visitors eager to experience farm life.
“I wasn’t sure if there was a market for farm tours,” he admits. “However, after seeing pools of positive feedback from the public, I quickly realised I was mistaken.” In no time, the farm welcomed hundreds of guests each week, transforming into a beloved local attraction.
A Hub of Activity and Learning
Today, Buttigieg’s farm is home to over 300 animals, including sheep, birds, rabbits, and alpacas. It offers a plethora of activities for families, including petting zoos, hayrides, and special events, all detailed on their website. Buttigieg emphasises the importance of making the farm accessible and affordable, ensuring that everyone can participate in the experience. “We price our goods ethically, and activities like the hayride are wheelchair-friendly,” he notes.
Raising his children on a farm presents a unique lifestyle vastly different from his own upbringing. Buttigieg hopes that this environment will instil in them an open-minded and hardworking mentality. “You never know what you’re going to find when you come out to the farm,” he encourages visitors. “You might see a baby being born, a swarm running, or sheep running loose and dogs being worked.”
Community Engagement and Environmental Stewardship
Buttigieg’s commitment to community engagement extends beyond farm tours. He actively involves local schools and organisations, fostering a sense of connection and responsibility towards the environment among younger generations. By providing hands-on experiences, he aims to instil a respect for nature and agriculture, critical elements in today’s increasingly urban-centric society.
The farm also plays a role in promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Buttigieg’s approach to farming integrates eco-friendly methods, ensuring that his operation aligns with the growing demand for environmental stewardship. His story serves as a reminder of the vital balance between agriculture and sustainability, particularly in a province rich in natural resources.
Why it Matters
Josef Buttigieg’s journey from professor to farmer not only highlights the unexpected paths life can take but also underscores the importance of reconnecting with nature and fostering community ties. In a world that increasingly prioritises urban living, his story serves as an inspiring example of how agriculture can enrich lives while promoting environmental awareness. As more people seek authentic experiences and sustainable practices, Buttigieg’s farm stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for both local residents and visitors alike.
