Ron Bergeron

Ronald "Alligator Ron" Bergeron Senior (born June 11, 1943) is an American conservationist, businessman, and philanthropist. He is best known for his activism surrounding the protection of the Florida Everglades. He is the namesake of the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds in Davie, Florida.

Early life At a young age, Bergeron’s grandfather took him on an airboat ride in the Everglades for the first time, and taught him to wrestle alligators, which he credits with sparking his love for the outdoors and Florida wildlife conservation.

At age eighteen, Bergeron left home with two hundred and thirty five dollars in his pocket. A year later, he began to compete professionally in rodeo, which he would continue for the next twenty years.

Businesses In 1965, Bergeron created his first business, Bergeron Land Development. In the next few years, the business would grow to over one hundred and fifty employees.

There are multiple other businesses under the Bergeron Family of Companies, including real estate, self storage, and waste management.

Conservation efforts Bergeron served two terms as a Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commissioner, appointed by both former Governor of Florida Rick Scott and current Governor Ron DeSantis. He currently serves as a member of the South Florida Water Management District Board.

Bergeron strongly considered running for Governor of Florida in 2018, but dropped out early in the race to focus on wildlife protection.

Bergeron spends time in the Everglades removing invasive Burmese pythons.

Injury by alligator In 2006, Bergeron suffered an injury to his hand after attempting to wrestle an alligator for the entertainment of guests visiting his nature preserve. The alligator rolled into nearby water with Bergeron in tow where the two struggled before the guests helped to free him.