The Saluda's waters are usually about 60 degrees, too cold for alligators.No one knows how the gator got to the ramp. Bennett says someone could have been placed the gator in a nearby pond or on the ramp.

Is it safe to swim in the Saluda River?

The coalition says safe levels are between zero and 349 units per 100 mL of water. As of Wednesday's testing, bacteria levels in the Saluda River near Interstate 20 and near River's Edge were almost seven times a safe level.

What parts of South Carolina have alligators?

Alligators are restricted to the Coastal Plain, which includes the Central Savannah River Area of Georgia and South Carolina. In South Carolina, alligators have been recorded to reach lengths of more than 13 feet.