TEMECULA - A remote area east of Temecula that's popular among target shooters can no longer be used because -- after a thorough investigation -- Riverside County sheriff's officials determined that it's private property, a spokesman said today.

For years, recreational shooters have used a vacant site along Pauba Road, just off state Route 74, for target practice, believing the grounds were under the control of the federal Bureau of Land Management, which allows "the lawful discharge of firearms," according to sheriff's Lt. Matthew Aveling.

He said residents of the surrounding area have complained about the activity because of noise.

Sheriff's officials, with the cooperation of the BLM and area land Advertisement

[ Carrington Home Loans ] owners, researched the issue, using traditional and electronic mapping, and learned that the makeshift shooting range is in fact situated on private property, Aveling said.

According to the lieutenant, using the site further could lead to a trespassing arrest.

"The Riverside County Sheriff's Department would like to ... preserve the rights of property owners and firearms enthusiasts alike," he said. "Members of the community should take this opportunity to educate friends and family about the (latest findings) to avoid unintentionally participating in unlawful behavior."

Sheriff's officials posted a link to an area map depicting the prohibited site: http://www.riversidesheriff.org/pdf/sws13-0123-map-unlawful-discharge-Dorland.pdf.

Anyone with questions was encouraged to call Aveling at (951) 696-3000.