When I initially didn't put up your embark modification, Wahnsinger, I was adamantly trying to avoid breaking the "game mechanic" wall. Now that the primary list has been filled very well in 13 pages of discussion I will add it in, with an apology. I still want to avoid this thread getting sidetracked however, but your suggestion applies strictly to what is here, so it fits.
You'll be happy to know, Inq. Saturn, that all your points are in the list already (although some under other names). I'll be renaming a few to make them more eye-catching, as well as integrating some of your wiki links.
Most of the (I)nit options I listed were actually for FPS killers. I think that is one more category where one is appropriate (ie Weather). Since this whole thread is actually an advisement to Toady, I thought it best to include them. I'll review all of them. If you see one you really object to, PM me. I'd prefer the thread not turn into debate about an ancillary issue. (Part of it being a managed thread is I have to read and reread every post, line, and comment)
edit:Removed 5 (I) tags. All those that remain are ones likely to add additional processing (thus hit FPS), radically change the mountain (Dig Deeper - which Toady isn't likely to try -see his quote) or involved cave-in mechanics (A WIP concept that is currently already an init option - I'd suggest bundling all of these ideas under the existing init option)