NWHG Ref. 048 — Cam Loch

Location, grid reference and photograph

Cam Loch is situated just north of Elphin, Grid Ref. [NC 224 140].

(Figure 42) Cam Loch, Suilven in the back ground. BGS Photo P000792.

GCR site reference, block, volume and notified feature of SSSI?

GCR Ref. 1529, Quaternary Block, Vol. 6. Notified feature of Cam Loch SSSI.

Description and geological significance

Cam Loch is a site of the highest scientific importance for Quaternary stratigraphy, palaeoclimatology and palaeoecology. Sediments deposited on the loch bed are important for reconstructing the environmental history of north-west Scotland from about 13,000 to 10,000 years ago. It is a major reference site in north-west Scotland for studies of the Devensian Lateglacial, is one of the most intensively studied sites of Lateglacial age in Scotland and is therefore a key locality for this area.

Accessibility

The loch can be reached from the A 835 at Elphin Cemetery ([NC 220 122]) but requires a boat to reach the more remote parts at its north-western end. No access for all abilities.

Conservation

Low conservation requirement due to the scale and location of the feature.

Visibility and “clarity”

The loch is easily seen from the A 835 to the north-east of Elphin. Interpretation and interpretation potential Despite the fact that the key features are sediments lying on the loch bed, there is considerable potential for erecting an interpretation panel, suitable for the general public, at the Elphin Cemetery access point which is regularly used by fishermen. The site should certainly be included in a future Geopark guide and it also has considerable potential as an educational resource.

Key references

BIRKS, H.J.B. 1993. Cam Loch. In Gordon, J. E. & Sutherland, D. G. (eds) Quaternary of Scotland. Geological Conservation Review Series, 6, Chapman and Hall, London, 134–137.