In a remarkable turn of events, Josef Buttigieg, a biology professor at the University of Regina, has traded the bustling streets of Toronto for the pastoral charm of Lumsden, Saskatchewan. What began as a temporary escape from urban life has blossomed into a thriving farm and a community hub for educational tours and family fun.
A New Chapter in the Prairies
In 2017, Buttigieg arrived in Saskatchewan to embark on his teaching career, seeking a tranquil lifestyle away from the frenetic pace of his previous life. The idea of owning a farm emerged as a more engaging alternative to the typical cottage retreat. “The farm was supposed to be an acreage,” he recalls, “because you can do much more with a farm than you can do with a lakeside acreage.”
Initially, Buttigieg’s vision was modest, featuring just a handful of animals. Armed with a PhD in neurophysiology from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, he hoped to enjoy the slower rhythm of farm life. However, what was meant to be a brief respite quickly turned into a transformative venture.
An Unexpected Demand for Farm Tours
As word spread about Buttigieg’s farm, friends began to express interest in visiting. “Some people got wind that I had a farm and said, ‘Hey, can you raise some chickens?'” he explained. This sparked the idea to open the farm for tours, beginning with his daughter’s friends.
“What started as a casual idea turned into something bigger,” Buttigieg continues. “I thought, ‘We’ll just do this for fun—some gas money-slash-beer money on the side, this will be great.’ But then they had fun and told their friends. All of a sudden, we had people knocking on the door asking, ‘Hey, can we come take a look at the place?'”
Despite initial reservations about the viability of such tours, the overwhelming enthusiasm from the public soon proved him wrong.
A Growing Community Hub
Today, Buttigieg’s farm welcomes hundreds of visitors each week, who come to interact with over 300 animals including sheep, birds, rabbits, and alpacas. The farm has evolved into a multifaceted experience, offering hayrides, a petting zoo, and various events that cater to families and educational groups.
Moreover, Buttigieg is committed to making the farm accessible and affordable. He ensures that activities like hayrides are wheelchair-friendly and prices for goods remain ethical, allowing everyone to enjoy the agricultural experience.
“We’re raising our children in a way that’s very different from my own upbringing,” Buttigieg reflects, hoping they will develop a strong work ethic and an appreciation for nature.
The Farm Experience: A Surprise Awaits
Visitors to Fenek Farm are encouraged to approach their visit with an open mind. “You never know what you’re going to find when you come out to the farm,” he says. “You might witness a baby being born, a swarm of bees, or sheep running loose with dogs working them.”
Buttigieg’s dedication to both education and community engagement has helped to create a unique space where people can connect with nature and learn about farm life.
Why it Matters
Josef Buttigieg’s journey from professor to farmer is emblematic of a growing trend where urban dwellers are seeking a deeper connection with the land. His commitment to accessibility and community involvement not only enriches the lives of his family but also fosters a sense of belonging among visitors. As more people look to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Buttigieg’s story serves as a reminder of the joys and surprises that await in rural living—an essential balance in today’s rapidly changing world.
