"After talking with a builder friend, I contacted WorkSafe to find out how the legislation might affect us.
"The person at WorkSafe read relevant sections of the legislation to me and suggested I seek legal advice or commission a recognised consultant.
"I support the intent behind the legislation, and safety is paramount, but the pendulum has swung too far and common sense is non-existent."
Whanganui MP Chester Borrows, who has recently voiced his frustration about health and safety red tape, said that he would look into the trust's concerns: "I will speak to the Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Michael Woodhouse and Corrections Minister Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga about it.
"It would be a real shame if an operation like this, which is so valuable to the community, were to cease operating because of misunderstanding."
Mr Borrows said if the people using chainsaws had training which met the standard, there should not be a problem.
Mr Leigh understood that Corrections had provided training but his impression was that the trust members and property owners would still be liable in the event of an accident.
"Everyone involved in the project takes the utmost care to minimise risk - there is nothing slack about the way Corrections staff oversee the work and the trees are already felled by the property owners."
A WorkSafe New Zealand spokesman said it was difficult to comment on the situation without more detailed knowledge. It had offered to send an inspector to assess the situation, which Mr Leigh had declined.
The spokesman said: "It would be unfortunate if a valuable community initiative were to stop because of fear of obligations under the Health and Safety in Employment Act.
"The purpose of the act is to help prevent harm to people at work or as a result of work.
"Tree felling is inherently risky work and it is important is that all practicable steps are taken to ensure the safety of workers."
Mr Leigh said trust members felt the weight of responsibility on their shoulders was too heavy for them to continue.