Logistics Guide

We are pleased to welcome you to Iowa for a two-week professional visit focused on building partnerships with U.S. seed sector stakeholders and learning about the American seed industry. This guide provides essential information to help you prepare for travel and make the most of your stay.

1. Travel and arrival

Arrival airport: Participants will arrive via Des Moines International Airport (DSM).
Arrival process: Upon arrival, collect your luggage.
Ground transportation: A representative will meet you at the airport and transport you to Ames. Your flight number and cell phone number will be shared with the driver so they can contact you upon your arrival. If flight times change, they will adjust your pickup accordingly.
Important documents: Keep your passport, visa, and invitation letter accessible always.

2. Accommodation

You will be staying in the following hotels during the course of your travels:
- Ames, Iowa: Courtyard by Marriott; 311 S 17th St, Ames, Iowa; +1 (515) 620-5910
- Fishers, Indiana: Spark by Hilton Indianapolis Northeast Fishers; 9760 Crosspoint Blvd., Fishers, Indiana; +1 (866) 994-8913
- St. Louis, Missouri: Hampton Inn St. Louis Downtown (at the Gateway Arch); 333 Washington Ave, St. Louis, Missouri; +1 (314) 621-7900
- Madison, Wisconsin: Moxy Madison Downtown; 823 E Washington Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin; +1 (608) 371-1350
- Des Moines, Iowa: Holiday Inn Des Moines Airport; 6111 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, Iowa; +1 (515) 287-2400
Amenities: Wi-Fi and basic services will be available. Please note: Breakfast is not provided at the hotel when staying in Ames. Breakfast items will be available at the Seed Science Center or on the bus if traveling outside of Ames.
Incidentals: Hotels may ask you to provide a credit card for personal expenses (e.g., laundry, room service).

3. Program overview

The program includes:
- Discussion sessions and workshops
- Meetings with U.S. seed companies and institutions
- Field visits and technical demonstrations
- Networking sessions
A detailed schedule has been provided separately. Please review it carefully.

4. Recommended attire

For international visitors coming to the Midwest the first two weeks of May, the key is to dress for variable spring weather—mild, sometimes warm, but with cool mornings, rain, and occasional wind. In early to mid-May, Ames typically has:

Daytime temperatures: ~67–76°F (19–24°C)
Evenings/mornings: ~47–57°F (8–14°C)
Frequent rain (May is the wettest month)

Visitors should plan to dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day. During daytime activities, light clothing such as shirts, blouses, or breathable tops paired with trousers or jeans will work well in mild temperatures. However, mornings and evenings can feel noticeably cooler, so bring a light jacket, sweater, or blazer.

Because May is the rainiest month in Ames, a water-resistant jacket or compact umbrella is highly recommended. Footwear should be comfortable and closed-toe, such as walking shoes or loafers, especially for site visits, tours, or time on university campuses and farms where surfaces may be uneven or damp.

For professional or institutional visits (e.g., meetings with organizations or seed companies), business casual attire is appropriate—collared shirts, blouses, slacks, and comfortable but neat shoes. It’s wise to include at least one slightly more formal outfit for official meetings or hosted events.

5. Transportation during the program

Daily transportation will be provided
Many site visits will require travel outside Ames.
Please follow the schedule and remain with the group during visits.

6. Meals

Provided meals: Most breakfasts (at the hotel) and many lunches/dinners will be arranged.
Dietary needs: Please inform organizers in advance of any dietary restrictions.
Dining norms: Tipping (15–20%) is customary in U.S. restaurants.

7. Health and safety

Emergency Number: Dial 911 for emergencies.
Local contacts: Lists of emergency and regular contacts are provided.
Health insurance: Please ensure you understand your coverage while in the U.S.
Medications: Bring all necessary medications in original packaging.

8. Communication

Wi-Fi will be available at hotels and most venues.
Consider international roaming or a U.S. SIM card if needed.
A group messaging platform (WhatsApp) will be used for updates.

9. Professional and cultural etiquette during site visits

Upon arrival, all must check-in and provide a government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, non-driver’s license, or passport. Seed companies follow strict rules; individuals who are unable to meet the minimum tour requirements may not be admitted to any site.
Individuals who are unable to meet minimum tour requirements will not be admitted to any site. Individuals not admitted may be escorted from the site.
Please keep in mind that tours are walking-intensive (stairs, ramps, walkways); casual, lightweight clothing is recommended.
Because tours typically include stops in growth chambers and greenhouses, flat and closed-toe shoes are required for every tour. In addition, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and socks are required only for entry into growth chambers.
Please respect the confidentiality of company information
Ask permission before taking photos
Follow all safety instructions

10. Financial information

Credit cards are widely accepted.
Participants are responsible for personal expenses unless otherwise specified.

11. Program materials and follow-up

Participants will receive:
- USB drives with training materials
- Certificates of completion
Feedback will be requested at the end of the program.

12. Iowa State University wi-fi access for international visitors.

To connect to ISU wi-fi, please follow the following steps:

Open your device’s Wi-Fi settings
Select the guest network (e.g., “ISU-Guest”)
Open a web browser
Complete the registration form (name and email)
Accept the terms → you will be connected

Note: You may need to reconnect periodically

13. Tornado warning sirens in the U.S. Midwest

Participants may notice that outdoor warning sirens used in the U.S. Midwest—particularly in states like Iowa—produce a loud, continuous wail that may be similar to air-raid sirens used in Ukraine.

These sirens are part of a severe weather alert system, most commonly used to warn communities of tornadoes or other dangerous weather conditions. They are typically tested on a regular schedule (e.g., weekly) and may also sound during actual weather events.

We understand that this sound may be unfamiliar or unsettling. Please be assured:

These sirens are not related to military activity or security threats.
They are intended solely as a public safety measure for weather emergencies.
Local hosts and coordinators will provide guidance if any action is needed.

Participants are encouraged to remain calm if they hear these sirens and to follow the program staff's instructions. Your safety and comfort are very important to us. If you have any concerns or feel distressed, please do not hesitate to reach out to a member of the organizing team.

Emergency Contact Numbers and Services

Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 911 – Use this number for any life-threatening situation.

Ames Police Department: (515) 239‑5133 – Non-emergency police assistance.

Ames Fire Department: (515) 239‑5133 – Non-emergency fire or medical support.

Mary Greeley Medical Center (local hospital & ER): (515) 239‑7000 – Main line for urgent medical care. Address: 1111 Duff Ave, Ames, IA 50010

Poison Control Center: 1‑800‑222‑1222 – For any accidental ingestion of toxic substances.

ISU Campus Safety (for incidents on Iowa State University property): (515) 294‑4428 – Non-emergency campus safety assistance.

ISU Health & Medical Services: (515) 294‑5801 – For urgent health-related concerns while on campus.

Please also carry your hotel address, a copy of your travel insurance, and the contact details of the local embassy/consulate.