A four-by-four vehicle damaged an important water vole habitat at an historic Roman road on Sunday.
Police said they are hunting a driver who "seriously damaged" the Long Causeway at
Stanage Edge, which is a site of special scientific interest.
Pc Kevin Lowe – who leads
Derbyshire Constabulary's operation to target illegal off-roaders – said both sides of the track had been damaged by an off-road vehicle.
Pc Lowe said: "Water voles are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981. It is an offence to intentionally or recklessly destroy or obstruct their shelter or disturb the water voles.
"Prosecutions can be brought by Natural England and fines of up to £5,000 can be imposed by the courts upon conviction," he added.
Pc Lowe urged anyone with information about Sunday's incident to contact him on 0345 123 3333.
The Long Causeway is an unclassified highway and is open to motorists.
