Ron Bergeron
Ronald "Alligator Ron" Bergeron Sr. | |
|---|---|
| Born | June 11, 1943 United States |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, philanthropist, environmental advocate |
| Known for | Environmental preservation of the Florida Everglades |
Ronald "Alligator Ron" Bergeron Sr. (born June 11, 1943) is an American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and advocate for environmental preservation. He has gained recognition primarily for his dedication to safeguarding the Florida Everglades. The Bergeron Rodeo Grounds in Davie, Florida, bear his name in tribute.
Early life
Bergeron's passion for the natural world and Florida's wildlife conservation was ignited early on when his grandfather introduced him to the Everglades via an airboat excursion and taught him the art of alligator wrestling.[1]
At eighteen, Bergeron left home with only $235 to his name.[2] The following year marked the start of his two-decade-long career as a professional rodeo competitor.[3]
Business ventures
Bergeron established Bergeron Land Development in 1965, which expanded rapidly to employ over 150 staff members within a few years.[3] Presently, the company employs approximately 190 individuals.[4]
The Bergeron Family of Companies encompasses several enterprises, including operations in real estate, self storage, and waste management.[5]
Environmental advocacy
Bergeron has completed two terms as a commissioner on the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, having been appointed by former Governor Rick Scott as well as current Governor Ron DeSantis. He also holds a position on the governing board of the South Florida Water Management District.[6]
Although Bergeron contemplated a gubernatorial bid in 2018, he withdrew early to concentrate on efforts aimed at protecting wildlife.[7]
He actively participates in removing invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades ecosystem.[8]
Injury from alligator
In 2006, Bergeron sustained a hand injury while attempting to wrestle an alligator as a form of amusement for visitors at his nature preserve. During the encounter, the alligator dragged him into the adjacent water, where they struggled until the guests intervened to assist in releasing him.
References
- ↑ "About Alligator Ron Bergeron - Learn more about Alligator Ron". Alligator Ron Bergeron - Florida Everglades. Retrieved 2025-03-18.
- ↑ "'Alligator Ron' Bergeron is the Florida man of Florida politicians". Tampa Bay Times. Retrieved 2025-03-18.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 "News & Announcements". Horatio Alger. Retrieved 2025-03-18.
- ↑ "Bergeron Land Development". Retrieved 2025-03-18.
- ↑ "Bergeron Family | Commercial Real Estate Properties". Bergeron. Retrieved 2025-03-18.
- ↑ "Content | South Florida Water Management District". www.sfwmd.gov. Retrieved 2025-03-18.
- ↑ Sr, Alligator Ron Bergeron. "Florida Businessman and Everglades Conservationist Alligator Ron Bergeron, Sr. Will Not Run for Governor". www.prnewswire.com. Retrieved 2025-03-18.
- ↑ "Florida Man Captures 16-Foot Python and Nearly 50 Eggs Beneath Home". Newsweek. 2019-07-08. Retrieved 2025-03-18.