In an inspiring tale of unexpected paths and community connection, Josef Buttigieg has transformed a modest farm in Lumsden, Saskatchewan, from a personal escape into a thriving hub for local visitors. Originally from Toronto and a University of Regina biology professor, Buttigieg’s venture into farming started as a temporary respite from city life, but has blossomed into a vibrant enterprise that welcomes hundreds of guests each week.
From Academia to Agriculture
Buttigieg’s journey began in 2017 when he relocated to Saskatchewan to take on his teaching role. With a PhD in neurophysiology from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, he sought a slower-paced lifestyle for his family. The initial plan was to acquire an acreage similar to a cottage, a place to unwind and perhaps cultivate some animals. “The farm was supposed to be an acreage,” he explained. “You can do much more with a farm than you can with a lakeside acreage.”
What commenced as a small-scale operation quickly escalated when friends and community members expressed interest in participating. “Some people got wind that I had a farm and said, ‘Hey, can you raise some chickens?’ One thing led to another,” Buttigieg recalled.
A Flourishing Farm Experience
Within a year of securing the land, Buttigieg opened the farm to the public, starting with tours for his daughter’s friends. Initially intended as a casual activity, the tours quickly gained popularity. “I thought, ‘We’ll just do this for fun, some gas money-slash-beer money on the side,’” he said. The success of the tours took him by surprise, as families began flocking to experience farm life.
Buttigieg soon realised he had tapped into a genuine interest within the community. “All of a sudden we had people banging down the door for that,” he noted. Today, the farm boasts over 300 animals, including sheep, birds, rabbits, and alpacas, and offers a variety of activities such as hayrides, a petting zoo, and special events.
Commitment to Accessibility and Affordability
Central to Buttigieg’s mission is the principle of making farm experiences accessible for all. He places significant emphasis on ethical pricing for goods and activities, ensuring that everyone can partake in the joy of farm life. “We want to ensure that our activities, like the hayride, are wheelchair-friendly,” he stated.
Raising his children on the farm has also been a transformative experience for Buttigieg, who aims to instill a strong work ethic and open-mindedness in them. He believes that their upbringing will differ vastly from his own, providing them with unique opportunities to engage with nature and understand the value of hard work.
An Invitation to Explore
Visitors to Fenek Farm are encouraged to embrace the spirit of curiosity. “You never know what you’re going to find when you come out to the farm,” Buttigieg remarked. From witnessing the birth of baby animals to observing the lively antics of sheep and dogs, each visit promises a new adventure.
For those interested in exploring the farm, detailed information about tours and activities can be found on their website. Buttigieg invites everyone to come with an open mind, ready to discover the unexpected joys of farm life.
Why it Matters
Buttigieg’s journey from professor to farmer underscores the potential for individuals to create meaningful community spaces that foster connection with nature and one another. In a world increasingly disconnected from agricultural roots, initiatives like Fenek Farm not only enrich local culture but also promote sustainability and environmental awareness. As families engage with the land, they gain insight into the importance of farming and the natural world, fostering a generation that values both hard work and ecological stewardship.