The American Rock Mechanics Association invites you to its 50th US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium to be held in Houston, Texas, USA on 26-29 June 2016. The 2016 program will focus on new and exciting advances in rock mechanics and geomechanics. In addition to being the central hub of the petroleum industry, Houston is one of the country’s most cosmopolitan and diverse cities that offers a great variety of activities and destinations for visitors. Houston’s deep cultural offerings include worldclassfine arts museums and the Natural Science Museum as well as its Symphony, Grand Opera, and Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. The Houston Astros baseball team are in full swing in June and Galveston beckons with it beaches, bay, and bustling boardwalk. And NASA’s Houston Space Center is an icon that cannot be missed. Technical tours and field trips are being planned. Sightseeing tours will include various city landmarks, social activities and other attractions. Short courses and workshops will be held immediately prior to the symposium and will be listed as they are confirmed. Details will be provided on the symposium web page as they become available