Advised Hard Creek Nickel Corporation regarding agreements with the Kaska First Nation

On July 13, 2009, 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) announced 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 that will enable Hard Creek to incorporate Kaska knowledge into their project design and planning for Hard Creek's Turnagain Project, a nickel-sulphide deposit located in north central British Columbia. 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. 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!" Paul Wilson and Kevin O'Callaghan of Fasken Martineau advised Hard Creek in the negotiation of the Protocol.