Accident Summary
According to the pilot, the accident occurred shortly after departing a gravel road loading zone to begin an aerial application to an alfalfa field. After departure, the pilot executed a right turn, during which one of the helicopter's spray booms contacted the 2½-foot-tall alfalfa. The contact caused the helicopter to enter a downward right spin. Subsequently, the spray boom dragged on the alfalfa, which, in the pilot's words, "initiated a dynamic rollover." The main rotor blades then contacted the terrain, and the helicopter "cartwheeled" onto its left side.
Aircraft Damage
Examination of the helicopter revealed damage to the main rotor blades, tail boom, tail rotor, and fuselage. No other damage items were specified.
Pilot Remarks
The pilot provided a recommendation following the accident: "Ensure adequate altitude before initiating turns, and exercise more caution when over tall grass or crops."