Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's inattentiveness during the aircraft preflight and his failure to maintain clearance above the trees.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he normally sets the altimeter to zero prior to takeoff. The pilot reported that he was distracted during the preflight and he forgot to reset the altimeter which was set to field elevation, approximately 1,000 feet. This resulted in the pilot releasing from the tow 1,000 feet lower than what he thought he was. The pilot stated the glider hit the tops of trees while on final approach.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported he normally sets the altimeter to zero prior to takeoff. The pilot reported he was distracted during the preflight and he forgot to reset the altimeter which was set to field elevation, approximately 1,000 feet. This resulted in the pilot releasing from the tow 1,000 feet lower than what he thought he was. The pilot stated the glider hit the tops of trees while on final approach.