Great idea, especially in an election year! We have the 9/11 blue ribbon panel, and ethics, and fundraising and what not panels, so we should have one for golf....
Seriously, the idea isn't bad, but the devil is in the details of the who, what, why, etc., not to mention the "who funds this groups activities." And then, how official could this be?
In the US, we have the historic preservation act, and Oakmont, I believe, is designated as a historic landmark. I don't know how any structure or place gets on the list for that designation, but I think it is a public application process. In my town, our African American district just got designated, which piqued my interest somewhat. Driving through it now, it is hard to see what some others have seen re preservation, but I wasn't involved with the process.
My point is, if "everyday" neighborhoods can get that status (and history study is moving towards every day life of people, rather than the famous events, which have been pretty well covered) I think some golf courses could qualify.
However, if such a group formed as an independent advisory body, and listed, say the top 25 courses worthy of inclusion, and that is the maximum I suspect would qualify for total preservation, I suspect they would have to get that/those course's permission, and apply for that status, no? Even then, I'm not sure who or how the changes, if necessary, like rebuilding bunkers, would be monitored, or by who, etc.
However, it seems like the most likely vehicle to get at least a few courses preserved, IMHO. If the national process is too daunting, I'll bet several states or even counties might have "official" programs for preservation. Again, the course(s) in question would certainly have to sign on, as I doubt an group (essentially the Ross society model) could get anything through without their permission.