Remembering Mel Sheng

The Pacific Salmon Foundation mourns the passing of Mel Sheng – a dedicated habitat biologist whose life’s work strengthened salmon conservation across British Columbia.

Mel was deeply respected throughout the salmon community for his kindness, humble leadership, and innovative expertise in salmon recovery. Based in Nanaimo, he served with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) for many years, most recently as a Section Head with the Salmonid Enhancement Program before retirement.

Mel’s dedication to salmon stewardship, and the wider community of people for salmon, extended far beyond his daily work. He shared his knowledge freely and had the ability to encourage people to think differently, giving his time and expertise all across B.C.

His collaborative nature also crossed international borders. Mel made two trips to China with habitat biologist Matt Foy, providing guidance to the Forever Nature Capital Foundation’s ‘Bringing Chinese Salmon Home’ initiative, reflecting his inclination to share his rich expertise.

The Pacific Salmon Foundation (PSF) was lucky to know Mel as a trusted collaborator and cherished friend. Mel served on the technical committee of PSF’s Community Salmon Program, supporting many grant cycles. Furthermore, with his wife, Jacky, Mel also dedicated years of volunteerism leading PSF’s fundraising events in Nanaimo.

“I will forever remember Mel as a dedicated salmon leader, generous mentor, and longstanding friend of the Pacific Salmon Foundation. Mel left us too soon, but his legacy will continue to flourish through the countless people he inspired and the far-reaching impact he made in the salmon community,” said Michael Meneer, President and CEO of the Pacific Salmon Foundation