Professor Josef Buttigieg never envisioned himself as a farmer, but life’s twists and turns have led him down an unexpected path. Since relocating to Saskatchewan in 2017 for a teaching position at the University of Regina, Buttigieg has transformed a simple acreage idea into a flourishing farm that serves as a vibrant community hub.
From Academia to Agriculture
Originally hailing from Toronto, Buttigieg sought a brief respite from the urban hustle and bustle when he and his family settled in Lumsden. His initial aim was to acquire a small acreage—akin to a holiday retreat—where they could enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside. “The farm was supposed to be an acreage,” Buttigieg recalls. “How some people have cottages, 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 casual investment in farmland blossomed into a full-blown agricultural venture. Armed with a PhD in neurophysiology from McMaster University, Buttigieg was initially drawn to the slower pace of rural life. Yet, a few animals quickly turned into a burgeoning farm, catalysed by community interest and engagement.
The Unplanned Journey to Farm Tours
As word spread about Buttigieg’s new venture, requests for farm tours began to pour in. “Some people got wind that I had a farm and said, ‘Hey can you raise some chickens?’” Buttigieg shared. “One thing led to another.” What started as an informal gathering for his daughter’s friends soon evolved into a popular attraction as more visitors expressed interest.
“I thought, ‘We’ll just do this for fun. Some gas money-slash-beer money on the side, this will be great,’” he explained. However, the overwhelming enthusiasm from visitors proved him wrong. “All of a sudden we had people banging down the door for that,” he said, realising he had underestimated the demand for farm experiences.
A Thriving Community Hub
Today, Buttigieg’s farm welcomes hundreds of visitors each week, showcasing over 300 animals, including sheep, birds, rabbits, and alpacas. The farm has evolved to include a variety of attractions—petting zoos, hayrides, and special events that foster a connection between urban dwellers and rural life.
Accessibility and affordability are cornerstones of Buttigieg’s operations. He prioritises ethical pricing for farm goods and ensures that activities like hayrides are wheelchair-friendly. “Raising my children on the farm life is far from what I had grown up on,” Buttigieg acknowledges, but he aims to instil a strong work ethic and openness in his children as they immerse themselves in farm life.
Visitors are encouraged to approach their experience with an open mind. “You never know what you’re going to find when you come out to the farm,” Buttigieg notes. Whether it’s witnessing the birth of a new animal, observing the lively antics of sheep, or enjoying the peaceful surroundings, each visit promises something unique.
Community Connection and Sustainability
Buttigieg’s journey embodies the spirit of community and sustainable agriculture. His farm not only provides an escape for visitors but also serves as a platform for education and interaction with the environment. By bridging the gap between urban and rural living, he fosters a greater appreciation for local agriculture and its significance in everyday life.
Why it Matters
In an era where urbanisation often disconnects individuals from their food sources, Buttigieg’s farm stands as a beacon of hope. It not only offers a tangible connection to agriculture but also promotes sustainability and community engagement. As more people seek to understand the origins of their food and the importance of local ecosystems, initiatives like Buttigieg’s farm can inspire a new generation to embrace farming as a viable, fulfilling lifestyle. In doing so, he is not just cultivating crops and animals; he is nurturing a community that values the land and its resources.