The Government is tipped to lift the minimum standard for freshwater quality today - although not to the "swimmable" standard many groups have been lobbying for.

Last year environment minister Nick Smith introduced a minimum "wadeable" standard for freshwater.

Environment Defence Society chairman Gary Taylor said today's announcement would likely see "a bit more fleshing-out of the national policy statement on freshwater."

There would also be "a bit more information about the regulations that will prevent cattle from getting into streams and rivers and lakes."

LISTEN ABOVE: Gary Taylor talks to Rachel Smalley