In an inspiring tale of unexpected transitions, Josef Buttigieg, a biology professor at the University of Regina, has transformed his life from academia to agriculture. What began as a temporary respite from bustling Toronto has blossomed into a thriving farm in Lumsden, Saskatchewan, where he now welcomes hundreds of visitors each week to experience rural life.
From City Life to the Countryside
Initially drawn to Saskatchewan in 2017 for a teaching position, Buttigieg sought a slower pace of life. The Toronto native envisioned owning a farm as a retreat—a more dynamic alternative to a lakeside cottage. “The farm was supposed to be an acreage,” he remarks. “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 started as a modest venture with a few animals quickly gained momentum when friends and neighbours expressed interest in farm activities. Buttigieg’s academic background, holding a PhD in neurophysiology from McMaster University, did not include any formal training in agriculture, yet he embraced the challenge with open arms.
The Birth of Fenek Farm
In 2018, a year after acquiring the land, Buttigieg opened Fenek Farm to the public, initially inviting his daughter’s friends for informal tours. “I thought, ‘We’ll just do this for fun. Some gas money-slash-beer money on the side, this will be great,’” he recalls. To his surprise, the response was overwhelmingly positive, leading to increased interest from the community.
“We had people banging down the door for that,” he adds, reflecting on how the unplanned tours turned into a major attraction. Today, the farm hosts hundreds of visitors weekly and is home to over 300 animals, including sheep, birds, rabbits, alpacas, and dogs.
A Commitment to Accessibility
Buttigieg’s vision for Fenek Farm extends beyond mere entertainment; he is dedicated to ensuring that the farm is accessible and affordable for all. He consciously prices goods and activities ethically, emphasising inclusivity. For instance, hayrides are designed to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges, allowing everyone to engage with the farm experience.
Raising his children in such an environment is a stark contrast to his own upbringing in Toronto, but Buttigieg hopes this lifestyle cultivates a strong work ethic and an open mindset in them. “You never know what you’re going to find when you come out to the farm,” he encourages potential visitors. “You might see a baby being born, a swarm running, or sheep running loose with dogs being worked.”
Embracing Community Engagement
As Fenek Farm continues to grow, it has become a hub for community engagement, offering not only farm tours but also various events and educational opportunities. The farm’s website provides details on activities, allowing families to plan visits that can foster a deeper connection to agriculture and nature.
Buttigieg remains passionate about sharing his unexpected journey and the joys of farm life with others. By inviting the community to participate, he hopes to bridge the gap between urban and rural experiences, fostering a greater appreciation for where food comes from and the work involved in sustainable farming.
Why it Matters
In a world increasingly disconnected from its agricultural roots, stories like Josef Buttigieg’s serve as vital reminders of the importance of community and sustainability. Fenek Farm not only offers a unique glimpse into rural life but also champions accessibility and education, making it an invaluable asset to the Lumsden area. As urbanisation continues to rise, initiatives like this can inspire future generations to reconnect with the land and understand the significance of sustainable practices in our food systems.