What happened
The flight was conducting operations during conditions that included gusty downdraft winds, dust devils, virga, and rain showers. During the climb phase after takeoff, the aircraft struggled to gain sufficient altitude to clear a ridgeline located in its flight path.
Recognizing the inability to maintain the necessary climb gradient, the pilot reversed course with the intention of returning to land at the airport. However, while on final approach, the flight encountered additional downdrafts that compromised the landing configuration.
Consequently, the pilot initiated a precautionary landing in an open area nearby. During the landing roll, the aircraft impacted a ditch, which resulted in the nose of the plane overrunning forward.