N30257Cessna 177 · 1968

The pilot reported that, shortly after rotation from a private grass runway, "a gust of wind pushed" the airplane to the left. The airplane continued left, exited the runway, the left wing struck a tree and the airplane impacted terrain.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The pilot added that, about the time of takeoff, the wind was from 220° at 10 knots, gusting 19 knots. The airplane departed to the southeast.