Life has a way of leading us down paths we never anticipated. For Josef Buttigieg, a biology professor at the University of Regina, trading the urban bustle of Toronto for the serenity of a farm in Lumsden, Saskatchewan, was a leap into the unknown that turned into a rewarding venture.
From Academia to Agriculture
Buttigieg arrived in Saskatchewan in 2017 to take on his teaching role, seeking a temporary respite from the fast-paced life of Toronto. His initial idea was to acquire a modest acreage, similar to what many might have as a holiday 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.”
What began as a small-scale operation with just a handful of animals soon evolved into a vibrant farm experience. Buttigieg, who holds a PhD in neurophysiology from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, found himself drawn into the slower rhythms of rural living.
An Unexpected Community Attraction
In 2018, just a year after securing his land, Buttigieg opened the farm for tours, initially inviting 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 recalls. However, the response was overwhelming. “They had fun and they told their friends. All of a sudden we got people knocking on the door saying, ‘Hey, can we come take a look at the place?’”
Despite his initial uncertainty about the demand for farm tours, the influx of visitors quickly dispelled any doubts. He describes the experience as transformative, noting, “All of a sudden we had people banging down the door for that.”
A Growing Haven for Animal Lovers
Today, Buttigieg’s farm hosts hundreds of visitors each week, showcasing over 300 animals, including sheep, birds, rabbits, alpacas, and dogs. The farm offers a range of activities, from petting zoos to hayrides, as well as special events and parties. Detailed information about the offerings can be found on their website.
Accessibility is a priority for Buttigieg, who ensures that all goods are reasonably priced and that activities, such as the hayride, are wheelchair-friendly. He views the farm as a place where everyone can enjoy the wonders of rural life without financial barriers.
Raising a Family Amongst Nature
Buttigieg’s journey into farming has had a profound impact on his family. “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 shares.
He encourages visitors to approach the farm with an open mind, as each visit can offer a unique experience. “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 says, highlighting the vibrant and unpredictable nature of farm life.
Why it Matters
Buttigieg’s story is a testament to the unexpected joys that can arise from embracing new opportunities. In a world that often prioritises urban lifestyles, his commitment to creating an inclusive and educational farm experience not only enriches the local community but also fosters a deeper connection to nature. As more people seek to understand where their food comes from and the importance of agriculture, Buttigieg’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder of the potential for personal growth and community development found in rural settings.
