Abstract: The pond projects play an important role in water storage and irrigation in hilly area of Jianghuai Region. Hence, we analyzed the development process of pond projects and crop-planting structure in hilly area of Jianghuai Region. Then, we proposed the concept of irrigation capacity and its calculation model based on water balance. The irrigation capability of ponds at different ages was quantitatively evaluated to reveal the dynamic evolution of the irrigation capability of ponds. The results show that the irrigation capability of ponds reached the top during the 1960s, then decreased from 1970s to 1990s and increased again until the early 21 century. This paper can provide theoretical basis and technical support for the ponds development planning and irrigation system in hilly area of Jianghuai Region.