What happened
The pilot was conducting practice takeoffs and landings at a private grass strip that measured 2,000 feet in length. Earlier in the day, a thunderstorm had passed through the area, leaving the grass surface wet. Prior to the accident, the pilot had successfully completed five normal landings.
During the flight in question, the takeoff was reported as normal. However, while on final approach to runway 7, the aircraft was higher than usual. The pilot noted that the airplane floated for a short distance before touching down. Upon touchdown, the pilot applied the brakes, but the aircraft could not be stopped in time to avoid striking a fence located at the departure end of the runway.
The investigation
An FAA aviation safety inspector examined the aircraft following the accident. The inspection determined that the brakes were operational, and the pilot reported that there had been no mechanical malfunctions.