Nessletter - No 164 - 2018

Magazine Overview

Title: NESS INFORMATION SERVICE NESSLETTER
Issue: 164
Date: February 2918 (likely a typo for 2018)
ISSN: 0204-7001

This issue of the Nessletter, published by R.R.Hepple, focuses on recent alleged sightings of the Loch Ness Monster and a proposed scientific study using DNA analysis. The editor provides skeptical analysis of the reports, suggesting misinterpretations and potential hoaxes, while also reflecting on personal experiences and the passage of time.

Blue Nessie

The first article discusses a newspaper report from mid-August 2016 about Calley Tulleth, who photographed a 'blue thing swimming across' Loch Ness. The author dismisses the sighting, suggesting the image shows a boat wake and the blue color is a reflection from a clear sky. The report is described as lacking in detail but the author believes the explanation is straightforward.

Two Humps

This section covers an 'astonishing' photograph published in early September 2016, taken by Ian Bremner. The image purportedly showed Nessie with a head, short neck, and two humps. However, the author strongly suggests the photograph is of seals, possibly three shots of one seal stitched together, noting the distinct fur patterns. The author questions the authenticity, suggesting the seals were photographed elsewhere and the image was a deliberate fake or misinterpretation, drawing parallels to other reported cases.

Dick Raynor

Dick Raynor, who has been observing Loch Ness for fifty years, reports that recent Nessie news has been 'nothing worthwhile'. He mentions a lady's photo of a head and neck in Urquhart Bay, which he identified as an old tree trunk. He also recounts witnessing a 'head and neck' proceeding across the bows of a hire craft. Later, he found a model monster, described as the size and shape of a double bass, with glass fibre pieces, near Strone Point. He kept the top of the head, noting it was well-made and heavy, possibly a film prop, but expressed disappointment that it didn't generate more press coverage.

DNA

The newsletter highlights an article from The Sunday Post about Professor Neil Gemmell from the University of Otago, who plans to use DNA analysis to investigate Loch Ness. The study would involve taking water samples from various depths and analyzing them for environmental DNA (eDNA) to detect organisms. Professor Gemmell believes this method can identify even rare species and potentially solve the monster mystery. The article notes that Roland Watson, a long-time researcher, welcomed the scientific inquiry. Adrian Shine of the Loch Ness Project and Steve Feltham, who has monitored the loch for 26 years, also expressed interest, with Feltham stating he would continue his quest regardless of the study's outcome. Ella Macrae, chairwoman of the Dores Community Council, anticipates the findings but believes the myth will persist.

The editor expresses skepticism, initially suspecting an April Fool's prank due to the date of the Sunday Post article (April 2nd, 2017). However, upon finding a corroborating article from the Otago Daily Times, the editor acknowledges the genuine nature of the proposal. The Otago Daily Times article explains that the eDNA technology is sensitive enough to pick up cells shed by organisms, and they have extensive databases for comparison to find unusual lineages.

Professor Gemmell stated that if unknown DNA is found, it would open up new avenues of investigation. He is described as a skeptic but open to being proven wrong. The project is currently a proposal, awaiting funding. The idea originated on Twitter and has gained traction, with potential for it to be undertaken within the next year. The Daily Mail has reported on the study, quoting researchers who expressed interest.

Analysis of DNA Study and Potential Findings

The author reflects on the proposed DNA study, comparing it to evening conversations at LNI HQ, Achnahannet, where ideas were shared. He notes the difference between casual discussions and global exposure via Twitter. The author wonders about the definition of a 'large organism' in the context of eDNA detection and speculates on the range of species that might be identified, from salmon to lampreys. He also considers theories about sturgeon, European catfish (Wels), or an overgrown Eel (Anguilla Anguilla) that did not return to the Sargasso Sea. The author questions whether the DNA of an overgrown eel would be distinguishable from a regular eel, potentially leading to the conclusion that it's 'just an eel'.

Alternatively, Professor Gemmell might discover something entirely new, raising questions about what lurks in the loch. The author suggests that such evidence would be categorized alongside other unexplained findings, like the Tim Dinsdale film. He believes DNA could bring researchers closer to identifying the genus or family of any unknown creature.

Personal Anecdote: The Yellow Swirl

The editor recounts an incident from around 1970 or 1971 when the LNI camera crew at Strone reported a patch of yellow water in Urquhart Bay that appeared to be rising from below. A team, including the editor and Tim Dinsdale, was dispatched with sample jars. They collected water samples, which were later analyzed and found to contain highly concentrated tree pollen, specifically from Scots Pine trees. This was a disappointing result, as they had hoped for evidence of Nessie's presence.

The author then speculates on how the pollen accumulated, suggesting that during dry periods, pollen fell onto riverbeds and quiet pools. Subsequent heavy rain would have flushed this debris into the loch, where bottom contours and currents brought it to the surface, causing it to swirl and dilute. He posits that such phenomena might have occurred over the years but went unnoticed without observers.

Personal Reflections and Editorial Stance

The editor apologizes for the delay in publishing the newsletter, attributing it to the passage of time becoming irrelevant since the death of his wife, Doris, eight years prior. He describes how caring for her during her illness gave him purpose, and now, managing his own daily life, he finds himself easily postponing tasks. He reflects on his age (82) and the limited number of 'untouched tomorrows', urging himself to use his time more productively, though admitting the ease of simply relaxing. He thanks readers for sending news and cuttings and reminds them about subscriptions, providing his contact details.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of Loch Ness Monster sightings, the potential of scientific methods like DNA analysis to investigate the mystery, and the personal reflections of the editor on time, loss, and the enduring nature of the Loch Ness legend. The editorial stance is largely skeptical towards sensationalized reports, favoring scientific inquiry while acknowledging the persistent appeal of the mystery. The editor emphasizes the importance of reader contributions and maintains a personal, reflective tone throughout.