I think I have a practical and reasonable way to address golf course rankings. What golf needs is a BCS formula.
We'll take Jeff Sagarin's rankings (from tournament scores relative to strength of field and margin of victory), the USGA course ranking and slope, and factor in polls from Golf Digest (writers) and NCAA coaches.
Of course, determing conference champions may be more difficult; but, we could leave that up to each region. Pebble Beach may be a heavy favorite; but, should they commit a lot of turnovers, an underdog like Pasatiempo could sneak into the dance.
Careful consideration has to be applied to maintain traditonal match-ups where possible; e.g., Pinehurst #2 vs. Augusta National. We also have to make provisions so that hot courses in smaller conferences have an opportunity to compete. So if a course (like Pacific Dunes) in an underrepresented state (like Oregon) has an excellent season, then it will be afforded an opportunity to compete with a traditional power (like Baltusrol).
Of course, we'll have to meet every winter to discuss whether changes are necessary to the formula. In any event, I think you'll see this is a far more democratic way to rank courses.