Sequence of Events
The flight was departing from a 1,200-foot long wet grass airstrip. Before takeoff, the pilot taxied along the strip several times to check field conditions. During taxi, the engine stopped once but then restarted. The pilot reported that he started his takeoff with carburetor heat off, and that the takeoff was normal until rotating into ground effect, at which point the engine lost 300 to 400 RPM. The pilot then cycled carburetor heat, but the engine stopped completely. The pilot landed straight ahead but was unable to stop in the remaining available distance. The airplane struck a ditch at the end of the takeoff area and nosed over onto its back.
Weather Conditions
A nearby weather observation facility was reporting temperature and dewpoint values which, according to a Transport Canada chart, presented a serious carburetor icing hazard at any power.