Governor Pawlenty has asked the White House for an expedited major disaster declaration for the state of Minnesota...In a letter to President Obama, the governor cites the strong potential for severe spring flooding... and requests direct federal assistance for work and services to save lives and protect property.In St. Peter, the water levels aren't the only concern...If the Minnesota River gets as high as it did in 2001, many of the downed trees from the 2006 tornado could be swept into the river.That could cause big problems for the bridges in town.Nicollet County Emergency Management director Denise Wright says, "Especially the Highway 99 bridge, so they'll monitor that. They'll look at it if it's getting to a point they'll close that probably even before there's any water up above it, just because the potential of those trees and stumps that could take that bridge out."Saint Peter Police Chief Matt Peters also says they have been getting the word out about the importance of flood insurance to residents that could be impacted by floodwaters.He hopes citizens will keep his department informed of any ice dams or debris they notice in the river.