Although an extremely important biome, little has been studied concerning specific plant responses to wildfire within the pinyon (Pinus spp.)-juniper (Juniperus spp.) woodland. A wildfire in the semi-arid Chisos Mountains, Texas, during 1980 provided an opportunity to examine the phenological response of desert plant species to burning. Consequently, we examined the response of vegetation and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus carminis) to wildfire for 2 years in the Chisos Mountains, Big Bend National Park (BBNP), Texas. Permanently established, random plots (1 m²) were established shortly after the fire and all individual stems of plants were identified by species and monitored twice/month. Forbs responded immediately (within 2 weeks post-burn) following a spring drought. Mexican pinyon pine (Pinus embroides) and alligator juniper (Juniperus deppeana) began crown regrowth 2 months after the fire. Grasses responded rapidly in open, meadow areas. Deer use of the burned area increased following the fire, but later decreased to pre-fire rates. When fire is properly managed, habitat quality for deer and other herbivores may be increased, and critically important meadow areas can be protected from pinyon-juniper invasion. © by the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. Abstract reproduced by permission. email: seafwa@aol.com