Background
The pilot-in-command was uncertificated. He was conducting a flight intended to assess the condition of an airstrip by means of a light touchdown.
Accident Sequence
Upon touching down on the airstrip, which was covered with fresh wet snow, the airplane decelerated rapidly. In response, the pilot applied full power. The airplane lifted off and began flying in ground effect toward a nearby river. The pilot then elected to turn in order to remain over land. During the turn, the left wing dropped suddenly. It recovered momentarily, then dropped again. Subsequently, the airplane flew sideways into alder bushes.
Findings
The pilot did not hold a valid certificate. The airstrip surface condition, with fresh wet snow, contributed to the rapid deceleration upon touchdown. The subsequent loss of control during the turn resulted in impact with vegetation. No further causal factors were identified in the available information.