Circumstances of the Event
The pilot reported that he circled the farm area several times to locate a suitable landing site. He selected a portion of a farmer's field adjacent to a house and made a final pass to inspect the area. During the pass, he observed some trees and decided to go around. He applied full throttle from glide power, but the engine sputtered and quit. The pilot stated that he then initiated a stall to avoid oncoming obstructions, specifically the house and trees.
Environmental Conditions
The temperature and dew point were 82°F and 51°F, respectively. According to icing probability charts, these temperature and dew point values are conducive to serious carburetor icing when the engine power is at idle. The carburetor heat was found in the off position.
Pilot Toxicology and Medical History
A blood alcohol test showed that the pilot's ethanol content was 221 mg/dL. The pilot's last medical certificate was dated April 4, 1980. That certificate had been issued with a restriction—a special panel exemption—after he had been treated for alcoholism, and it was valid for only six months.