CONTACT: Kellyanne Bartleson
Public Outreach Coordinator
(850) 267-2112
Email: kbartleson@swcmcd.org
Website: www.southwaltonmosquitocontrol.org
PRESS RELEASE
Innovation Takes Flight: South Walton Mosquito District Wins Prestigious Award and Donates 30k to Friends of Topsail
Santa Rosa Beach, FL (January 20, 2026) – South Walton Mosquito District (SWMD) proudly announces its recent recognition at T-Mobile’s 2025 4th Annual Innovate Awards in Orlando, where industry leaders were honored for groundbreaking achievements in innovation and community impact. SWMD received the event’s highest distinction—the Malcolm Gladwell Tipping Point Award—along with a $30,000 charitable donation.
SWMD earned this honor for introducing the Panhandle’s first-ever drone-powered mosquito control program, powered by T-Mobile 5G technology. This innovative initiative has reduced treatment times by 75%, optimized resource allocation through advanced mapping systems, and set a new benchmark for sustainable public health practices. By integrating drones, data, and reliable connectivity, SWMD has redefined mosquito control— protecting communities more efficiently while demonstrating how small government agencies can leverage innovation to serve the public and preserve the environment.
“We are honored to receive the 2025 T-Mobile Malcolm Gladwell Tipping Point Award. Competing alongside nationally recognized organizations such as Cisco, Tractor Supply, and UNLV made this recognition especially meaningful, and being selected by Malcolm Gladwell himself is a true honor,” said Darrin Dunwald, Director of SWMD. Following discussions with staff and Board of Commissioners, SWMD voted to donate the award to Friends of Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. Darrin added, “In keeping with our commitment to community and environmental stewardship, we chose to donate the $30,000 award to Friends of Topsail Hill Preserve State Park to help preserve one of the limited conversation areas in our region.”
A check presentation ceremony will take place at 4:00 PM on Friday, February 6, 2026, at the Visitor Center at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. Media representatives and the public are invited to attend.
To learn more about SWMD, its drone program or other services, follow SWMD on social media and visit https://www.southwaltonmosquitocontrol.org.
About South Walton Mosquito District: In 1964, SWMD was established to control disease bearing mosquitoes and other insects. Services include advanced methods of Surveillance, Drone technology, Truck Spraying, Aerial Treatments, Larvaciding, Adulticiding, Integrated Pest Management, Source Reduction/Ditch Operations, Distribution of Yellow Fly Kits, Sentinel Chicken Surveillance, and Public Outreach. For more info, please follow SWMD on Facebook or Instagram or visit https://www.southwaltonmosquitocontrol.org.
About Friends of Topsail Hill Preserve State Park: The Friends of Topsail is a Citizens Support Organization committed to protecting, enhancing, and celebrating this beautiful natural space. Through volunteer projects, educational programs, community gatherings, and fundraising efforts (Tapas & Tunes and Camp Christmas), they work hand in hand with park staff to preserve the park’s unique environment and history. As the community grows, so does the importance of safeguarding this local treasure for future generations. To learn more or volunteer, please visit https://www.topsailparkfriends.org.
About T-Mobile: As the supercharged Un-carrier, T-Mobile US, Inc. is powered by an award winning 5G network that connects more people, in more places, than ever before. With T Mobile’s unique value proposition of best network, best value, and best experiences, the Un carrier is redefining connectivity and fueling competition while continuing to drive the next wave of innovation in wireless and beyond. T-Mobile provides services through its subsidiaries and operates its flagship brands, T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile, and Mint Mobile. For more info, visit https://www.t-mobile.com.
