What happened
The flight was conducted for the purpose of predator, specifically coyote, control. The pilot was engaged in following a coyote at a low altitude and moderate speed while performing an air taxi over terrain covered with snow and sagebrush.
During this maneuver, one of the aircraft's snowboards struck several sagebrush limbs. This interaction caused the pilot to lose directional control of the helicopter. Subsequently, the aircraft rotated and rolled over, coming to rest on its side or roof.
The investigation
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the helicopter. Specific components affected included the rotor assembly and the tail boom. No further mechanical examination details were provided in the source narrative beyond the extent of the physical damage sustained during the rollover.
Findings
Contributing factors to the incident included the low-altitude flight profile over uneven, brush-covered terrain and the specific interaction between the snowboard equipment and vegetation. The loss of directional control occurred as a direct result of the snowboard catching sagebrush limbs.