Background
Prior to departure, a mechanic who was scheduled to perform work on the airplane advised the owner/pilot that weather conditions were below landing minimums and recommended against attempting the trip.
Accident Sequence
During a localizer approach at the airport, the aircraft struck trees located west of the approach end of the runway. After executing a missed approach, the pilot informed air traffic control that bird strikes had occurred on both wings and that the de-icing boots appeared to be damaged.
Witness Account
A local resident witnessed the event and reported hearing "the scraping sound of branches against metal" and observing "the upper branches of the pine trees waving after contact with the plane."
Approach Minimums
The trees that were struck were situated at a terrain elevation of 599 feet above sea level. The published minimum descent altitude for the approach was 1,100 feet.