The problem here is the max size of a parcel of land & the concept of conservation.

Because there is a perception of not enough land & therefore not enough animal habitation, the devs feel they can't just give everyone the max size parcel (even if they're only allowed to settle a small portion of it to begin with).

While I agree with the OP that requiring 20 members on day one in order to get the max parcel is a bit steep, I understand where the devs are going with this. There is going to have to be a compromise somewhere since we won't have the option to forcefully evict neighbors if the need for expansion arises. This current setup isn't great, but may be an unnecessary evil given the limitations the devs have set for us & themselves in regards to conflict resolution.