What happened
The pilot was conducting cruise flight at approximately 1,000 feet above ground level (agl) when they observed snow showers ahead of the aircraft. In an effort to navigate the weather, the pilot decided to descend to approximately 500 feet agl. During this maneuver, the pilot reduced engine throttle without first applying carburetor heat.
As the pilot increased throttle to level the aircraft at the lower altitude, the engine began sputtering. Although the pilot subsequently applied carburetor heat, the engine failed to respond effectively. The engine continued to run roughly, making it impossible to maintain level flight.
The pilot selected a snow-covered gravel bar for a forced landing. The aircraft touched down in snow approximately 18 inches deep. During the subsequent landing roll, the airplane nosed over, resulting in damage to the rudder and the right wing lift strut. The pilot was not injured.
At the time of the accident, weather conditions included light to moderate snow showers with an overcast ceiling between 1,200 and 1,500 feet. Temperatures were reported between 35 and 38 degrees F.
The investigation
A postaccident inspection of the engine revealed no mechanical anomalies.