Accident Details
According to the pilot, the accident occurred during a takeoff from a small, remote gravel area. The airplane was a tail-wheel equipped model. The takeoff area, located at an elevation of about 1,700 feet mean sea level, was approximately 800 feet long and oriented east/west.
Sequence of Events
The pilot initiated the takeoff toward the west and lifted off near the end of the strip. During the climb, the tail of the airplane struck the tops of several willow trees located about 15 feet above the ground. The impact caused damage to the elevator, rendering the pilot unable to push forward on the control wheel.
Consequently, the airplane began to stall and mush, then settled onto the ground. Upon contact, the main landing gear collapsed, and the right wing struck additional willow trees.
Wind Conditions
The pilot reported wind conditions at the time of the accident as 090 degrees at 3 knots.