In an unexpected turn of events, Josef Buttigieg, a biology professor at the University of Regina, has transformed a simple land purchase into a thriving farm that welcomes hundreds of visitors each week. Originally from Toronto, Buttigieg sought a brief escape from urban life when he arrived in Saskatchewan in 2017, but his venture into agriculture quickly became a central part of his life and a valuable resource for the local community.
A New Beginning
Initially, Buttigieg’s vision for his farm was modest. “I wanted an acreage, similar to how some people have cottages,” he explains. “A farm offers much more potential than just a lakeside retreat.” What began as a small-scale operation with a handful of animals soon blossomed into a full-fledged farm experience, as friends and neighbours expressed interest in his agricultural pursuits.
“Once people found out I had a farm, they began asking if I could raise some chickens,” Buttigieg recalls. “One thing led to another.” This organic growth marked the start of his journey, which he admits was largely unplanned.
Expanding Horizons
By 2018, Buttigieg opened the farm to visitors, beginning with tours for his daughter’s friends. “I thought it would just be a fun way to earn a bit of gas money or beer money on the side,” he shares. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with more and more people seeking to explore the farm. “We suddenly had folks knocking on the door asking for tours,” he adds.
Initially unsure if there was a genuine interest in farm tours, Buttigieg quickly realised he had tapped into a growing demand. Today, his farm attracts hundreds of visitors each week and boasts a diverse array of over 300 animals, including sheep, alpacas, and birds, alongside a variety of activities such as hayrides and events.
A Commitment to Community and Accessibility
At the heart of Buttigieg’s operation is a commitment to making the farm accessible and affordable for all. He prioritises ethical pricing for goods and services, ensuring that activities like hayrides are wheelchair-friendly. “I want to create an environment where everyone feels welcome,” he affirms.
Raising his children in this unique agricultural setting contrasts sharply with his own upbringing in a bustling city. Nonetheless, Buttigieg hopes that the lessons learned on the farm will instill a strong work ethic and a sense of curiosity in his children. “You never know what you’ll find when you visit the farm,” he encourages. “You might witness a birth, see sheep on the run, or watch dogs at work.”
Visitors can find more information about the farm and its offerings on the Fenek Farm website, where Buttigieg invites everyone to come with an open mind and a spirit of adventure.
Why it Matters
Buttigieg’s journey from academia to agriculture encapsulates a broader trend of urban dwellers seeking a more connected, sustainable lifestyle. His farm not only serves as a retreat for families to engage with nature and learn about farming but also reinforces the importance of local food systems and community ties. As more people embrace sustainable practices and community-focused initiatives, Buttigieg’s story stands as a testament to the power of adaptability and the unexpected joys of rural life.