Introduction

This volume contains a total of 21 papers given in talks or poster sessions at the eighth annual Pacific Climate (PACLIM) meeting at the Asilomar Conference Center in Pacific Grove, California, March 10-13, 1991. Consisting of about a third of the total presentations, this selection gives a representative cross section of the breadth and diversity of topics. With the beautiful and peaceful setting, the relaxed and informal style of the sessions, the diversity of topics, and the quality of presentations, these meetings provide a stimulating atmosphere for cross-disciplinary interaction.