Narrative
The pilot reported that while descending in a left turn from approximately 1,000 feet to 700 feet above ground level (agl), the airplane's left wing dropped. Despite applying right stick, the airplane entered a spin. The pilot then pushed the stick forward and applied right rudder, anticipating recovery. The aircraft recovered approximately 35 feet from the ground, below a tree line that was quickly approaching. Noticing an area of open ground to his left, the pilot elected to land there.
Damage and Fire
During the landing, one of the landing gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to slide to a stop short of the trees. A fire then erupted in the engine nacelle area. The pilot attempted to extinguish the fire with an onboard extinguisher, but it was insufficient, and the entire fabric aircraft was consumed by fire.
Pilot's Recommendation
The pilot provided the following safety recommendation: "Maintain adequate airspeed at all times when airborne."