We’re passionate landowners dedicated to improving and managing wetlands, particularly our cherished Tupelo Cypress break.
At Back Porch Developments, we’re passionate landowners dedicated to improving and managing wetlands, particularly our cherished Tupelo Cypress break.
Over the years, we’ve transformed our land into a thriving habitat for ducks and other wildlife through careful management of aquatic vegetation and innovative techniques.
Our journey has taught us invaluable lessons in habitat improvement, and we’ve connected with fellow outdoor enthusiasts and professionals along the way. Equipped with our specialized Marshmaster, an amphibious tractor designed for mowing and spraying in challenging wetland environments, we tackle projects that traditional equipment can’t handle. Whether it’s maintaining pipeline right-of-ways in moist soils or enhancing private properties, we’re here to help.
Ben Nicholson
Outdoor Enthusiast and Advocate for Wildlife
Hi, I’m Ben Nicholson, a devoted father of three and an avid outdoor enthusiast with a passion for bass fishing, deer hunting, and duck hunting. My love for the outdoors was nurtured in my childhood on my father’s rice farm, where I spent countless hours with his friends, soaking in their stories and experiences in the world of duck hunting.
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Professionally, I’m a trained school psychologist and a board-certified behavior analyst, dedicated to working with children with disabilities, particularly those with autism. I find joy in using my skills to train dogs and share my passions with others, creating connections and fostering growth.
As life progressed and success allowed me to purchase my own piece of property, I became increasingly intrigued by habitat improvement. I transformed an overgrown Tupelo Cypress break into a thriving wetland, benefiting both my family and the local wildlife. This journey connected me with many incredible people, including Martin from Duck Dynasty and other outdoor enthusiasts, who taught me invaluable lessons about managing our local wetlands and moist soil environments.
Years ago, I met the team at Marshmaster while exploring equipment options for accessing our moist soil areas without damaging the ground. This encounter inspired me to establish Back Porch Developments, where I can share my knowledge and passion for land improvement with others who want to enhance their properties for future generations.
I continue to work with children with disabilities in my full-time role, but my commitment to supporting others extends to Backporch Developments. It’s my hope that through our combined knowledge and experience, we can help fellow landowners improve their land and create sustainable habitats for wildlife. Let’s work together to preserve and enhance the great outdoors we all cherish.
Harry Nicholson
Dedicated Farmer, Skilled Craftsman, and Mentor
Harry Nicholson was born in Pioneer, Louisiana, as the middle child in a lively family of three brothers and one sister. Growing up in a farming household, he developed a deep connection to the land, working alongside his family to cultivate everything from cotton and soybeans to rice and corn. This early experience instilled in him a lifelong passion for agriculture and the outdoors.
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An avid outdoorsman, Harry has a genuine love for deer hunting and duck hunting. Over the years, he has shifted his focus from hunting to filming wildlife, dedicating more time to observing and documenting their behaviors. This shift has deepened his understanding of land use and the intricacies of the animals that inhabit it, further fueling his commitment to improving habitats for wildlife.
In addition to his outdoor pursuits, Harry became a skilled duck hunting guide during the off-season, leading countless hunts on the family farm. This role allowed him to meet many wonderful people and forge lasting friendships, all while sharing his love for nature and wildlife.
Later in life, Harry pursued a degree in finance from Louisiana Tech University, but his hands-on skills and love for machinery continually drew him back to the fields. He found fulfillment as a maintenance manager for various companies, where he managed multi-million dollar equipment, fabricated essential parts, and ensured that everything ran smoothly. His expertise as a skilled welder and fabricator was complemented by his problem-solving abilities, making him an invaluable asset in any setting.
As a father to both a son and a daughter, Harry has always embraced the role of mentor, guiding the next generation with wisdom and care. Today, he serves as a consultant and the head mechanic/fabricator for Back Porch Developments, where he continues to apply his vast knowledge and skills to support habitat improvement projects and share his passion for the outdoors with others.
Harry Nicholson embodies the spirit of dedication, craftsmanship, and mentorship, leaving a lasting impact on his family, community, and the land he loves. His commitment to wildlife conservation and habitat improvement reflects his belief in nurturing the natural world for future generations to enjoy.
Expertise in
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Planting
We specialize in planting diverse wet soil crops, such as Japanese millet, golden millet, and rice, to support the rich wildlife that calls these areas home.
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Wildlife Food Plots
Our machines are designed to handle wetlands, soft ground, and remote locations, allowing us to establish high-quality food plots for deer, turkeys, waterfowl, and other wildlife where traditional farming equipment would struggle. Whether it’s a flooded bottomland, a remote clearing, or an area with limited access, we have the expertise and technology to get the job done efficiently.
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Wildlife
Over the years, we’ve transformed our land into a thriving habitat for ducks and other wildlife through careful management of aquatic vegetation and innovative techniques.
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Offroad Vehicle Recovery
Our team is equipped to recover ATVs, UTVs, trucks, and heavy equipment with minimal impact on the surrounding environment. We understand the terrain and use the right tools to extract your vehicle efficiently, preventing further damage to both your equipment and the land.
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