Josef Buttigieg, a professor at the University of Regina, has undergone a surprising transformation from academic life in Toronto to becoming a thriving farmer in Saskatchewan. Initially seeking a temporary escape from urban chaos, Buttigieg’s foray into agriculture has blossomed into a beloved community hub, offering farm tours and a hands-on experience of rural life.
A New Chapter in Saskatchewan
Buttigieg’s journey began in 2017 when he arrived in Saskatchewan to take up his teaching position. The Toronto native and his family moved to Lumsden, hoping to invest in a piece of land that would serve as a retreat. “I envisioned the farm as an acreage, similar to how some people have cottages,” he explains. “I wanted a farm because there’s so much more you can do with it compared to a lakeside property.”
What started as a small venture with a handful of animals soon evolved into a full-fledged farm. Holding a PhD in neurophysiology from McMaster University, Buttigieg was ready for a change, relishing the slower pace of life that farming offered.
The Birth of a Farm Experience
Originally, Buttigieg had no plans to expand his farming activities beyond personal enjoyment. However, word quickly spread about his operation. “Some locals found out I had a farm and asked if I could raise chickens,” he recalls. “One thing led to another.”
In 2018, after securing the land, Buttigieg opened his farm to visitors, starting with tours for his daughter’s friends. “I thought it would be a fun side activity, something to earn a bit of gas money,” he shares. Yet, the response was overwhelming. “We had people knocking on the door asking if they could come and see the farm,” he adds, realising that there was a genuine interest in farm tours.
Growing Community Engagement
The demand for farm tours exceeded Buttigieg’s expectations. Now, hundreds of visitors flock to the farm each week, keen to interact with over 300 animals, including sheep, rabbits, and alpacas. The farm has transformed into a lively venue offering goods, petting zoos, hayrides, and even events for parties, with all details conveniently listed on their website.
Accessibility and affordability are key principles for Buttigieg. He is committed to ensuring that the farm remains open to all, with ethically priced goods and wheelchair-friendly hayrides. “Raising my children on a farm is vastly different from my own upbringing,” he notes. “I hope they cultivate an open and hard-working mindset as they grow up surrounded by this environment.”
A Unique Experience Awaits
Visitors are encouraged to approach their farm experience with an open mind. “You never know what you’ll encounter when you visit,” Buttigieg remarks. “You might witness a birth, see a flock of sheep running, or even observe dogs at work.”
More information about Fenek Farm can be found on their website, where potential guests can discover the various experiences awaiting them.
Why it Matters
Buttigieg’s journey underscores the importance of community engagement in agriculture, especially in a world increasingly disconnected from its rural roots. By offering a space for people to reconnect with nature and farm life, Fenek Farm not only provides educational opportunities but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the environment and sustainable practices. In a time when urban lifestyles dominate, Buttigieg’s story serves as a reminder of the value of agricultural experiences and the vital role they play in nurturing a balanced relationship with our surroundings.
