For Josef Buttigieg, the journey from academia to agriculture was unplanned yet profoundly transformative. The University of Regina biology professor, who originally hailed from Toronto, had intended to find a temporary refuge from urban life in Saskatchewan. However, what began as a brief escape has blossomed into a vibrant farming venture, bringing joy, education, and community connection to many.
A New Beginning in Saskatchewan
Relocating to Lumsden, Saskatchewan, in 2017, Buttigieg sought a quieter lifestyle, envisioning a farm where his family could invest time and energy. “The farm was supposed to be an acreage,” he explains. “You can do much more with a farm than you can do with a lakeside acreage.” Initially, his plan was modest, involving just a handful of animals. Armed with a PhD in neurophysiology from McMaster University, he was ready to embrace the slower pace of rural life.
However, as Buttigieg began to settle into his new environment, the farm quickly evolved beyond his expectations. The community soon learned of his endeavour, and requests to raise chickens turned into a flurry of interest. “One thing led to another,” he recalls, reflecting on the organic growth of his farm.
From Private Farm to Public Experience
What started as a personal project for family enjoyment took a surprising turn in 2018, when Buttigieg opened his farm for tours, beginning with his daughter’s friends. “I thought, ‘We’ll just do this for fun. Some gas money-slash-beer money on the side,’” he recalls. The initial tours attracted positive attention, leading to an unexpected influx of visitors eager to experience farm life.
Despite his initial doubts about the viability of farm tours, Buttigieg quickly recognised the public’s enthusiasm. “All of a sudden we had people banging down the door for that,” he remarks, highlighting the growing interest in agricultural experiences.
Today, Buttigieg’s farm welcomes hundreds of visitors weekly, featuring over 300 animals, including sheep, birds, rabbits, and alpacas. In addition to tours, the farm offers a range of activities, such as a petting zoo, hayrides, and special events, all detailed on their website.
Commitment to Accessibility and Education
Buttigieg is equally committed to ensuring that his farm remains accessible and affordable for all. He prioritises ethical pricing for farm products and ensures activities like hayrides are wheelchair-friendly. This thoughtful approach reflects his desire to foster an inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy the beauty of rural life.
Raising his children on the farm is a stark contrast to his own upbringing, yet Buttigieg sees immense value in this lifestyle. He hopes his children will cultivate an open mind and a robust work ethic as they grow up surrounded by nature and animals. “You never know what you’re going to find when you come out to the farm,” Buttigieg states, inviting visitors to embrace the unpredictability of farm life. “You might see a baby being born, there might be a swarm running, or you might see sheep running loose and dogs being worked.”
A Community Hub for Connection and Learning
Buttigieg’s farm has become more than just a recreational space; it serves as a community hub where people can connect with each other and nature. The tours not only educate visitors about farming practices, but they also instil a sense of appreciation for local agriculture and the environment. This initiative is particularly timely, as discussions surrounding sustainable farming and food security become increasingly relevant in today’s world.
Moreover, as society grapples with the impact of urbanisation and climate change, initiatives like Buttigieg’s offer a refreshing perspective. They remind us of the importance of maintaining a connection to our food sources and the land that sustains us.
Why it Matters
Buttigieg’s unexpected journey into farming exemplifies the potential for personal reinvention and community engagement through agriculture. In an era where urban life often disconnects individuals from nature, Fenek Farm stands as a testament to the enriching experience of rural living. By fostering a space that prioritises accessibility, education, and environmental stewardship, Buttigieg not only nurtures a thriving farm but also contributes to a broader conversation about sustainable practices and the importance of local food systems. His story serves as an inspiring reminder that sometimes the most fulfilling paths are those we never planned to take.
