[Objective] In view of the current situation of water eutrophication in water storage ponds in recent years, the pollution characteristics and water quality status of water storage ponds were clarified in order to provide a scientific basis for water purification research and water environmental protection. [Methods] Measurements of pH value, dissolved oxygen (DO), total nitrogen (TN), ammonia nitrogen (NH₄⁺-N), nitrate nitrogen (NO₃^--N), total phosphorus (TP), and phosphate radical (PO₄^3--P) in 14 representative water storage ponds in Xianyang City of Shaanxi Province were determined from the perspective of area, depth, water storage status, and main function of water storage ponds. The water quality of water storage ponds was analyzed by a standard index method and a comprehensive pollution index method. [Results] ① The water pollution of the water storage pond in the survey area was related to the serious external pollution caused by the lack of management and protection of the water storage pond, and was related to the agricultural non-point source pollution caused by the agricultural production activities of rural residents. ② The water quality of most water storage ponds was seriously polluted, and did not meet the water standards for agricultural water and general landscape water. Phosphorus nutrients were the main factor which resulted in water pollution. [Conclusion] The water pollution of water storage ponds has the typical characteristics of rural domestic sewage. Treatment methods suitable for the rural environment should be selected according to the characteristics of water pollution.