Riparian systems are a small but important resource in the southwestern USA and northern Mexico because of the diverse, dynamic, and complex biophysical habitats they provide. Wildfires have always produced the most significant impacts on riparian hydrology, geomorphology, and biology. Prescribed fires have not been used to any great extent in the Madrean Province for vegetation management in riparian systems. The unique geophysical characteristics of the Madrean Archipelago make it especially responsive to climatic events. Water yield, peakflow, and sediment yields after wildfires can be among the largest in North America, and can have a substantial impact on the watershed and associated riparian systems.