Data from the acoustic surface reverberation experiment (ASREX) [Williamsetal., J. Acoust. Soc. Am.97, 3404 (1995)], is analyzed using multivariate Fourier and wavelet techniques to investigate relationships between environmental conditions and observed acoustic surface backscatter at 200, 400, and 800‐Hz frequencies. Environmental variables observed included wind speed and direction, wave height, air and sea temperatures, current speed and direction, ambient noise, and various measurements of bubble activity characterized by depth‐integrated air volume and e‐folding depth. The relative contribution of the environmental parameters to observed backscattering strengths at the various frequencies will be discussed. The analysis techniques will be described, compared, and contrasted. [Work supported by ONR.]