What happened
The flight was being conducted for the purpose of predator (coyote) control on behalf of the State of South Dakota Department of Game, Fish, and Parks. During the mission, the pilot and a gunner were attempting to maneuver a coyote out of a 'slew' and into an alfalfa field.
While performing a left, slightly descending turn at an altitude of 150 feet above the ground, the pilot reported that the control stick went "limp." In response, the pilot applied full power, leveled the wings, and applied forward stick pressure in an effort to regain lift. Despite these actions, the aircraft continued its descent.
The aircraft impacted the edge of the alfalfa field while maintaining a wings-level attitude. The force of the impact caused the main landing gear to separate from the airplane. Following the initial contact, the aircraft slid approximately 60 feet before nosing over. The occupants were not injured.