The Office of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) says it has received a referral from a mining company that wants to undertake exploration in the Helena Aurora Range.

Environmental groups are opposed to mining in the area, arguing it is home to a variety of rare and endangered species.

The Wilderness Society’s Peter Robertson says asked the EPA to create a national park in the area in the Yilgarn Shire so it cannot be mined.

He says for decades, scientists, conservationists and governments have recommended the range be protected.

The EPA has confirmed Polaris Metals has expressed interest in conducting mining exploration in the area.