Standard statistical test for (lack of) drift?

[fyke@lanl_gov]

Hi there,

I am curious as to what statistical tests CESM modelers would use to establish that a model has reached an equilibrium (i.e. a variable of interest is not drifting, significantly)? I am finding that tests that assess for a trend are common (e.g. this great little discussion by Dennis Shea: https://climatedataguide.ucar.edu/climate-data-tools-and-analysis/trend-analysis). However, assessing the robustness of a LACK of trend is something that doesn't seem as easy (at least, to this statistical neophyte).

Any ideas on how to establish that a model variable is/is not in equilibrium?

Thanks in advance for any thoughts -

Jeremy Fyke