(a) Any person selected for appointment by the commissioner as an advisory board member shall qualify by filing a written acceptance with the commissioner within 15 days after being notified of such selection.

(b) Members shall serve at the pleasure of the commissioner for one term of three years; provided, however, that they shall continue to serve until their successor has been duly appointed and qualified; and provided, further, that initial nominations and appointments shall be effective upon qualification and beginning January first for a one-year term in the eastern area, for a two-year term in the central area, and for a three-year term in the western area beginning on the first day of January following the effective date of the program.

(c) In the event of the failure of growers to provide nominations as hereinbefore provided, the commissioner shall make the necessary appointments in such a manner as he shall deem appropriate; provided, however, that of the eight grower members of the board, no more than four shall be growers whose farms are located in the eastern area, no more than two shall be growers whose farms are located in the central area, and no more than two shall be growers whose farms are located in the western area.