Ewest's pictures are really great, and they show how the trees disintegrate over time when used as structure.
In the last 40 years, I've removed and replaced a lot of worn out "structure".
A number of years ago I found a fantastic (and cheap) tool for removing old structure. Places that sell horsey stuff usually stock "tack hooks." They are large and strong stainless steel grappling hooks. I'm sure Angus MacGyver must have used one in at least one of his TV shows to escape from something.
The last one I bought about two years ago cost about $3.00. Outfitted with about 25-50-foot of strong rope, we've retrieved chaise lounges, fishing poles, lost minnow traps, and a fair amount of worn out structure.
