Excavation at Loch Achilty
20 September 2025
A week of excavations at the crannog at Loch Achilty, running Saturday 20th September to Saturday 27th September.
Excavations run by NOSAS with the Nautical Archaeological Society (NAS) and Michael Stratigos. Divers have been recruited by NAS.
NOSAS, in partnership with the Nautical Archaeology Society (NAS), are planning a one-week site investigation at Loch Achilty Crannog, commencing on Saturday, 20 September 2025. Grant aid has been obtained from the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, and SSE Renewables. NOSAS will be funding part of the work from its own reserves.
A team of volunteer divers from NAS, managed by a commercial diver and professional archaeologist, plan to open an underwater trench down the side of the crannog, in the hope of uncovering timbers and other organic material for dating and paleoenvironmental analysis.
At the same time, NOSAS will excavate a trench on top of the crannog, with the same aims.
A team from the University of Tromso will take sediment cores from the loch bed around the crannog, and, if possible, through the base of the NOSAS trench into the interior of the crannog. The cores will be analysed for ancient DNA.
The NOSAS excavation will be led by Cathy Dagg.
There is an opportunity for NOSAS members to assist in various aspects of the work. Participation in more than one role is encouraged.
Divers for the excavation have already been recruited by NAS. Non diving excavation will involve working in knee deep water, lifting out heavy rocks to expose the material underneath. It will be necessary to wear a wetsuit or waders. You will need to be physically fit and will be exposed to cold, wet conditions. Due to the very restricted size of the site, only a small number of people will be able to work at any one time and the physically demanding work will require frequent breaks, so it is likely that a rota system will be established. Transport to site will be by canoe or small boat. Other volunteers will be needed to take photographs, complete records, provide boat based support and engage with the general public. Please contact Richard Guest if you are interested.
See further details at https://www.socantscot.org/uncategorized/society-funds-underwater-excavation-of-medieval-crannog-and-more-with-latest-grants/
