Nessletter - No 058 - 1983

Magazine Overview

This issue of NESS INFORMATION SERVICE, dated June 1983 (Issue No. 58), focuses on the Loch Ness mystery, featuring a book review, analysis of key evidence, and reports of recent sightings and ongoing investigations.

Book Review: 'The Loch Ness Mystery, Solved' by Ronald Binns

The primary focus is a review by Ronald Watson of Ronald Binns' book, 'The Loch Ness Mystery, Solved,' published by Open Books. Binns' central thesis is that all reports of large creatures in Loch Ness can be explained away as hoaxes, driftwood, floating logs, boats, wakes, local wildlife, and mirage effects, aiming for a '100% explained' resolution. Watson notes that Binns dismisses classic photographs like 'The Surgeon's' and Hugh Gray's as hoaxes, and the 1972 'Flipper' photographs as an 'Academy hoax.' Binns also classifies Tim Dinsdale's filmed object as a reddish-brown motor boat, and Torquil Macleod's land sighting as a man in a boat. While Binns dubs sonar findings as inconclusive, Watson argues that Binns' approach is too dismissive.

Watson challenges Binns' claim of 100% explanation, pointing out that approximately one-fifth of sightings occur at distances of 100 metres or less, where mirage effects are less significant and wildlife is more recognizable. He criticizes Binns' dismissal of the 1972 'Flipper' photographs, stating there is no evidence of a hoax and that Binns is 'floundering.' Watson also disputes Binns' claim that Laclan Stuart's photograph was of rocks, as it failed to account for the witnessed head and neck.

Binns' question, "Why is there so little evidence for so many hours of surveillance?" is deemed crucial by Watson. Watson suggests Binns might be right that sometimes the creature is not there at all, proposing a 'tulpa' theory (previously reported in NIS55). Watson concludes that while Binns' book may not convert believers, he himself remains open-minded until he sees something himself. He expresses concern that the book, if read in isolation by newcomers, could discourage investigation.

Analysis of the Tim Dinsdale Film

The issue delves into the 1960 film taken by Tim Dinsdale and its evaluation by JARIC (Joint Air Reconnaissance Intelligence Centre UK) in 1966. JARIC, a professional photographic interpretation group, examined the original 16mm film using optical enlargement. They calculated the speed and length of a 14-foot boat filmed on the same day, which matched Dinsdale's assessment. They also analyzed a vehicle on the far shore.

Regarding the 'object' in Dinsdale's film, JARIC measured a solid, black, approximately triangular shape with a base of 5.5 feet. They calculated its height above the waterline as 3 feet. After considering it might be a surface vessel, they ruled this out, as well as a submarine, concluding it was likely an 'animate object.' JARIC's report, based on measurements, suggested a cross-section of the 'body' of 6 feet by 5 feet. The film was re-examined in 1980 by the same organization with different personnel, reaching the same conclusions. The Jet Propulsion Laboratories of Pasadena also examined the film, with findings closely following JARIC's, even suggesting a possible small second hump.

Watson argues that with such evaluations from bodies like JARIC and JPL, Binns' claim to have the correct solution is questionable.

Other Books and Information

'Monsters: A Guide to Information on Unaccounted-for Creatures'

Another book mentioned is 'Monsters: A Guide to Information on Unaccounted-for Creatures,' by George M. Eberhart, published by Garland Publishing Inc. This is described as a comprehensive bibliography with 4450 references, covering various unaccounted-for creatures, including Bigfoot and the Loch Ness creature. The chapter on Freshwater Monsters alone contains 743 references. It is recommended for public libraries and academic institutions rather than casual readers.

Strange Story: The Sjo-Troll

A strange account from 'Hampton on Pike Fishing' is shared, detailing an experience in a lake in Fryksdale, Wermeland. A fisherman spotted something resembling elk or reindeer horns. It was later revealed to be the skeleton of an eagle, overgrown with algae, attached to the back of a large pike. This 'Sjo-Troll' had been seen for years and was mistaken for a creature.

Sightings and Investigations

Recent Sighting (June 20, 1983)

Two young women and a young man reported seeing a large shape on the surface of Loch Ness. The sighting occurred about two miles past Drumnadrochit. The shape was described as black, with small bumps, about 200 yards from the shore, undulating slowly and leaving a significant wash. Avril Deacon estimated the visible portion of the back was four feet out of the water. The overall length was estimated to be as much as 45 feet. Caron McNicol, another witness, stated she had never seen anything like it and was now sure of animals in the Loch.

NIS at the Lochside

Doug Macfarlane reports on his recent trips to Loch Ness. He has changed jobs and now works from home, allowing for more frequent visits. He has made four visits with his family this year, with plans for monthly visits.

Roger Acreman is scheduled to visit from July 16th to July 28th, accompanied by his brother Rob and Jeffery Watson. They will use a similar watching strategy as the previous year, employing Pentax cameras with motor drives, 500mm lenses, and 70-150mm zooms, focusing on early morning watches. Acreman also plans to conduct tests to evaluate the distance and size of an object he filmed the previous year.

Roland Watson plans to visit from July 20th to 31st.

Lionel Leslie intends to visit in August.

The author and family will be at the Loch for the first two weeks in August, using a cream coloured Bedford Dormobile.

Lake Champlain Phenomena Investigation

Joe Zarzynski of the Lake Champlain Phenomena Investigation reports that the planned ISC expedition to Loch Morar has been postponed for one year. They will test equipment in Lake Champlain this year, preparing for Loch Morar in 1984. Zarzynski also reported the death of a NIS member, Mayor Erastus Corning 2nd of Albany, New York, who had been a member since 1976.

Reader Feedback and Questions

James Baldwin raises a point for discussion regarding the Rhine photographs, asking for members' views on their interpretation and authenticity, especially in conjunction with sonar traces.

The editor, R.R. Hepple, requests reader feedback on any items, including the Rhine photographs, and asks for questions for future Nessletters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the ongoing investigation and debate surrounding the Loch Ness Monster. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, valuing evidence and analysis, while remaining open to possibilities. The review of Binns' book highlights a skeptical viewpoint, but the publication itself seems to encourage discussion and the sharing of diverse opinions and evidence, as seen in the call for reader feedback on the Rhine photographs and other matters. The publication also serves as a platform for coordinating investigator activities and sharing news within the NESS Information Service community.