In a remarkable twist of fate, Josef Buttigieg, a biology professor at the University of Regina, has transitioned from academia to agriculture, discovering a thriving farm operation in Lumsden, Saskatchewan. What began as a temporary respite from urban life has evolved into a vibrant hub for community engagement and education about farm life.
A New Chapter in Saskatchewan
Josef Buttigieg, originally from Toronto, moved to Saskatchewan in 2017 to pursue his teaching career. The fast-paced city life had begun to wear him down, prompting him and his family to seek a quieter lifestyle. Their venture into farming was initially intended as a modest investment—akin to owning a lakeside cottage.
“The farm was supposed to be an acreage,” Buttigieg reflects. “I wanted to have a farm because you can do much more with a farm than you can do with a lakeside acreage.” Starting small with a few animals, Buttigieg began to immerse himself in the slower rhythms of rural life, a stark contrast to his previous existence.
The Farm Takes Shape
Buttigeig had no plans to offer tours or engage the public when he first acquired the land. However, as word spread about his farm, friends and acquaintances began to express interest. “Some people got wind that I had a farm and said, ‘Hey, can you raise some chickens?’” he recounts. This casual inquiry set in motion a series of developments that would redefine his farm’s purpose.
By the following year, Buttigieg opened the gates for tours, initially catering to 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 explains. The initial response was overwhelmingly positive, leading to a surge of interest from the community. “All of a sudden we had people banging down the door for that,” he says, highlighting the unexpected popularity of farm visits.
A Community Hub
Today, Buttigieg’s farm has blossomed into a bustling destination, attracting hundreds of visitors each week. With over 300 animals, including sheep, birds, rabbits, and alpacas, the farm offers a diverse range of experiences. From a petting zoo to hayrides and special events, there is something for everyone.
Accessibility and affordability are cornerstones of Buttigieg’s operation. He takes pride in ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the farm, with wheelchair-friendly activities and ethically priced goods. “Raising my children on the farm life is far from what I had grown up on, but I hope they develop an open and hard-working mindset,” he shares.
Buttigieg encourages visitors to come with an open mind, as each day on the farm holds new surprises. “You never know what you’re going to find when you come out to the farm. You might see a baby being born, there might be a swarm running, or you might see sheep running loose and dogs being worked,” he adds.
Embracing Change
The journey from professor to farmer has not only transformed Buttigieg’s professional life but has also reinforced the importance of community engagement and sustainability in agriculture. His story serves as a reminder that life can take unexpected turns, leading to fulfilling opportunities that enrich both personal and communal life.
Why it Matters
Buttigieg’s experience highlights the growing interest in local agriculture and community-driven initiatives, particularly in a world increasingly concerned about food sources and sustainability. By opening his farm to the public, he not only nurtures a deeper connection between urban residents and rural life but also educates future generations about the importance of farming. As cities expand and the gap between urban and rural continues to widen, initiatives like Buttigieg’s offer a vital link, fostering understanding and appreciation for the agricultural sector that sustains us all.