Incident Overview
A glider pilot reported that during preflight preparations, he was distracted and neglected to reset the altimeter. Normally, the pilot would set the altimeter to zero prior to takeoff. On this occasion, the altimeter remained set to the field elevation of approximately 1,000 feet.
Sequence of Events
As a result of the altimeter showing field elevation rather than zero, the pilot released from the tow 1,000 feet lower than he believed he was. The pilot stated that the glider subsequently struck the tops of trees while on the final approach.
Contributing Factors
The pilot's distraction during the preflight check and his failure to reset the altimeter led to the misjudgment of altitude.