Ben Cartwright owns the Ponderosa Ranch, which takes up 50,000 aces. About 40,000 acres are grassland, another 5,000 acres are swampland, and another 5,000 acres are forest. With his current resources, he can raise 5,000 cattle a year. What are some ways he could increase the number of cattle he can raise?

To increase the number of cattle he can raise, Ben Cartwright could consider the following strategies:

1. Improved Pasture Management : By optimizing the grassland management, he can increase the carrying capacity of his land. Implementing rotational grazing, reseeding nutritious grass species, and ensuring proper pasture rest can help the land support more cattle.

2. Supplemental Feeding : By providing additional feed to the cattle, especially during times when forage is less available, he can support higher stock densities.

3. Land Conversion : Converting some of the swampland or forested areas into grassland, if environmentally and economically viable, could allow for more grazing space.

4. Disease and Pest Management : Implementing a strict health management program to control diseases and parasites can lead to healthier and more productive cattle, thus potentially allowing for an increase in herd size.

5. Breeding Program : Improving the genetic stock through selective breeding or introducing new breeds could result in cattle with better feed conversion ratios or with characteristics more suited to the ranch's environment.

6. Water Management : Ensuring that the cattle have access to clean water and managing water resources wisely can lead to better health and weight gains for cattle.

7. Infrastructure Improvement : Building additional fencing, water troughs, and shelters can help in managing a larger herd more efficiently.

8. Diversification : Though not a direct way to increase cattle numbers, diversifying the ranch operations to include other forms of livestock or agricultural operations can boost overall productivity and income.

It is important for Ben to consider the environmental impacts of increasing cattle numbers and ensure sustainable practices are in place to maintain the health of the land.