Is the bark still on it?

Thank you for responding. There is a strip of about 4" wide down the length of it that was stripped off, otherwise the bark is intact. The trunk segment is about 2-1/2' in diameter.

It will rot eventually, unless treated, and even then it will just rot slower. Why not just use it as is for the years that it lasts? It's going to be very very difficult to really protect it. You can get deck preservative to spray on it but you won't be able to get it to soak in very far. The really good stuff at the lumber yard is all 'pressure treated' and you can't do that at home.

The decomposition process would be part of its charm, to me.

You'll need to decide what you want from a replacement tree before anyone can give you meaningful suggestions. Size and shape, especially.

Thanks for responding. Just as you said, we had planned on using it as long as possible. It was one of my favorite trees and I guess I am going through separation anxiety. :) Plus, it is a shame to just burn or dispose of such a nice chunk of trunk. As for a replacement, my problem is that I want everything. Actually, that gives me an idea--As long as they are under 30' tall, there really is room for everything (the evergreen already in place). They would obscure my view of the new homes being built. Hmmmm.