In a compelling turn of events, Josef Buttigieg, a biologist and professor at the University of Regina, has transitioned from urban living in Toronto to running a flourishing farm in Lumsden, Saskatchewan. What began as a temporary escape from the hustle and bustle of city life in 2017 has evolved into a vibrant operation that draws visitors and families from near and far.
An Unforeseen Adventure
Buttigieg’s initial desire was simple: to invest in a tranquil property, reminiscent of the lakeside retreats many seek. “The farm was supposed to be an acreage,” he explains. “Like some people have cottages, I wanted a farm because you can do much more with a farm than you can do with a lakeside acreage.” With this mindset, he embarked on a venture that would ultimately reshape his life.
Starting with a modest number of animals, Buttigieg was able to experience the slower pace he craved. His academic background—a PhD in neurophysiology from McMaster University—provided a unique perspective on the natural world, and this connection to the farm life sparked unexpected interest from friends and community members.
Building a Community Hub
As word spread about his farm, requests began pouring in. “Some people got wind that I had a farm and said, ‘Hey, can you raise some chickens?’” recalls Buttigieg. This casual inquiry opened the door to something much larger. Within a year of acquiring the land, he decided to offer tours, initially starting with 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 notes, reflecting on the humble beginnings of what was to become a bustling community hub.
To his surprise, the response was overwhelming. “All of a sudden, we had people banging down the door for that,” Buttigieg remarks, illustrating the unexpected demand for farm tours. Today, his farm welcomes hundreds of visitors each week, offering a range of experiences from animal interactions to hayrides, and even hosting events and parties.
A Commitment to Accessibility and Education
Beyond merely providing entertainment, Buttigieg is dedicated to making his farm accessible and affordable for everyone. The pricing structure for goods and activities is carefully considered to ensure that the experience is within reach for families. Moreover, he has taken steps to ensure that activities such as hayrides are wheelchair-friendly, reinforcing the farm’s inclusive ethos.
As a father, Buttigieg reflects on the contrast between his upbringing and the lifestyle his children are embracing. “Raising my children on the farm life is far from what I had grown up on, but I hope they sustain an open, hard-working mind as they grow on the farm,” he shares. This commitment to fostering a positive environment mirrors the farm’s overarching mission to educate and engage the local community.
Embracing the Unexpected
Visitors to Fenek Farm can anticipate the surprises that await them. “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,” Buttigieg invites. This element of unpredictability adds to the charm of the farm, attracting visitors eager for a genuine experience with nature.
More details about the farm’s offerings can be found on their website, where Buttigieg encourages potential visitors to come with an open mind and a spirit of adventure.
Why it Matters
Buttigieg’s journey from academia to agriculture exemplifies a growing trend where individuals seek deeper connections with the environment and community. By transforming his farm into an educational and accessible space, he not only enriches his family’s life but also contributes to a broader conversation about sustainable living and the importance of local food systems. His story is a reminder of the unpredictable paths life can take and the potential for personal growth when one embraces new challenges. In an era where urbanisation often overshadows rural vibrancy, Buttigieg’s farming venture stands as a testament to the value of reconnecting with our agricultural roots.
