What happened
The pilot was operating an aircraft on a turf runway characterized by a down slope. Conditions included a 10-knot headwind. During the landing roll, the pilot determined that the available runway length was insufficient to bring the airplane to a complete stop within the paved or prepared surface limits.
To avoid overrunning the end of the runway, the pilot executed a swerving maneuver off the active surface. As the aircraft departed the runway area, the left wing tip made contact with trees located near the threshold. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the airframe.
The investigation
Review of the Airport Facility Directory for the location indicated specific operational guidance regarding wind direction and runway usage. The directory noted that operations were typically oriented with landing on the north end and takeoff from the south, contingent upon wind conditions permitting such configurations.