Incident Description
During the takeoff roll at a remote grass airstrip, the aircraft's right main landing gear struck a mound of dirt created by a burrowing animal. This caused the aircraft to suddenly veer to the right. The pilot applied left rudder to correct the situation but was unable to realign the aircraft with the takeoff heading before it departed the right side of the airstrip surface.
After leaving the takeoff surface, the landing gear rolled over several large rocks nearby. Subsequently, the right wing impacted a tree located near the side of the airstrip.
Contributing Factors
The pilot did not see the dirt mound during the takeoff roll because it was hidden by tall grass and weeds. Additionally, the pilot had not walked the length of the 1,100-foot remote runway to check for obstructions prior to takeoff.
Runway Conditions
According to a note in the Idaho Airports Guide, the surface of this runway is rough and subject to ongoing deterioration. The guide also states that usage of the runway is limited to "highly experienced" mountain pilots.