Kaska and Hard Creek Sign Traditional Knowledge Protocol

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA, Jul 13 (MARKET WIRE) --
George Miller, Chairman of the Kaska Dena Council, Corrine Porter,
Executive Director, Dena Kayeh Institute and Mark Jarvis, President of
Hard Creek Nickel Corporation (TSX: HNC) are pleased to announce the
signing of their "Traditional Knowledge Protocol". The Protocol is a key
step in the process for the Kaska and Hard Creek towards achieving a
mutually beneficial relationship.

The Protocol sets out important commitments by both the Kaska Dena and
Hard Creek towards undertaking a Traditional Knowledge study this summer
that will enable Hard Creek to incorporate Kaska knowledge into their
project design and planning for Turnagain. The Protocol provides specific
detail regarding the Kaska Dena ownership, control and management of
their traditional knowledge, including terms on prior informed consent,
confidentiality and intellectual property rights.

"This is another important milestone in our process of building a
mutually respectful relationship with the Kaska Dena," said Mark Jarvis,
President of Hard Creek Nickel.

George Miller of the Kaska Dena Council commented, "The signing of this
Traditional Knowledge Protocol sets another precedent of mutual rights
recognition between the Kaska Dena and a resource industry partner. It
acknowledges the significant role that traditional knowledge plays in
decision-making within our territories. We look forward to the meaningful
implementation of the TK study, report and recommendations. This Protocol
isn't just a base hit, it's a Grand Slam!"

CORRINE PORTER, Executive Director

CAT LEE, Chief

DEASE RIVER BAND COUNCIL

WALTER CARLICK, Deputy Chief

DAYLU DENA COUNCIL

DONNY VAN SOMER, Chief

KWADACHA FIRST NATION

GEORGE MILLER, Chairman

KASKA DENA COUNCIL

MARK JARVIS, President

HARD CREEK NICKEL CORPORATION

The Toronto Stock Exchange does not
accept responsibility for the accuracy or adequacy of this news release.

Contacts:
Hard Creek Nickel Corporation
Mark Jarvis
President
604-681-2300
604-681-2310 (FAX)
info@hardcreek.com
www.hardcreeknickel.com

Copyright 2009, Market Wire, All rights reserved.

-0-